THE fun factor.
Former de facto law minister Datuk Mohd Zaid Ibrahim has proffered the above as the pertinent reason why many tourists prefer Phuket to Langkawi as a tourist destination.
In a lengthy diatribe on X (formerly Twitter), the prominent lawyer placed the blame squarely at the door of the anti-fun faction ie the religious conservatives consisting of influential preachers.
He asserts that these neo-conservatives are holding back the economic development of the country by being opposed to anything that is remotely fun or against their dogmatic values.
Hence, Taylor Swift concerts, nightclubs or entertainment outlets – or anything else that allows people to have a good time – is frowned upon by these religious zealots who are hell-bent on imposing their moral principles on all and sundry.
Zaid went on to make comparisons with Saudi Arabia which is trying to modernise and open up its economy with King Muhammad Salman keen to move the oil-rich kingdom into the 21st century.
The former cabinet minister urged the government to fight back against the increasingly pervasive influence of these religious preachers who are having a negative impact on the country and its economy.
Langkawi and Phuket
Many reasons have been offered why Phuket is the preferred tourist destination over Langkawi. The answer is fun. Phuket is a place that gives you the experience of having fun.
There are many shades of fun, of course, but that’s why Phuket is Phuket. It does…
— Zaid Ibrahim (@zaidibrahim) March 11, 2024
His rallying call garnered plenty of responses. Here is what others had to say on the issue.
Many echoed the lawyer’s observation that too many restrictions is hindering Langkawi’s potential.
Aside from price factors, one netizen highlighted the difference in culture, observing the welcoming and friendly attitude of locals in Phuket.
Another highlighted the large number of Muslim tourists from Malaysia who seemed to prefer the Thai destinations over local spots due to competitive pricing, attractions and most pertinently, lack of moral policing.
A few netizens placed the blame at Kedah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition, claiming that the damage their policies are wreaking on Langkawi is worse than legendary folklore’s seven generation curse of Mahsuri.
Fellow legal eagle and social activist Siti Kasim lamented that there was a lack of political will to combat the influence of the conservative faction.
One netizen urged the Malay rulers to take a stand against these religious fanatics, who are described as a threat to the constitutional monarchy.
However, not everyone was in agreement with Zaid’s sentiments.
The post and the accompanying comments highlight how the national discourse seems to have been reduced to whether something is halal (permissible) or haram (prohibited).
While the preachers and their followers are free to lead their way of life, there must be respect for the civil liberties of others. Regardless of the economic cost, there must be a recognition that Malaysia is a melting pot society with different cultural values.
If the conservative faction does not wish to partake in what it deems to be immoral activities, it is their right. However, they must refrain from forcing it down the throats of others. – March 12, 2024
Main image credit: The Penangite
