Kuala Lumpur: Concerns over the display of alcoholic beverages in retail outlets have resurfaced following a post by a Facebook page.
The post said alcohol placed on open shelves, near checkout counters and along main customer walkways may contribute to normalising its presence in daily shopping environments.
It argued that repeated public exposure could make such products appear ordinary, easily accessible and less harmful in the eyes of consumers.
The page cited the World Health Organisation (WHO) as saying that limiting physical availability, promotion and exposure to alcohol is among the effective ways to reduce alcohol-related harm in society.
The post also noted that Malaysia already has provisions under the Food Regulations 1985 on the display of alcohol for sale.
These include requirements for alcohol to be placed separately from food items and for warning notices, including restrictions on sales to those below 21, to be displayed at premises.
However, it said gaps remain in the practical implementation of such rules, particularly where visibility and placement may still contribute to the normalisation of alcohol in public spaces.
