Elite Malay Khamr Drinkers in Contemporary Malaysia: An Islamic Perspective

Abstract

In the Malaysian context, the study of khamr has gained minimal attention, and there is a distinct lack of written literature on Malay drinkers, not to mention among the elite, while it remains an ongoing concern. Moreover, studies on khamr, according to the Islamic perspective are fundamentally based on fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). Therefore, this study aims to contribute to the literature on khamr, specifically involving Malay drinkers in Malaysia, by analysing their pattern of behaviour and consolidating the sociological domain in the Islamic framework of the role of social agents and the fiqh of khamr. This study interviewed and applied direct observation of six informants to analyse the reasons that caused them to drink by examining their social background and highlighting the role of their social agents from the Islamic viewpoint. Findings reveal that the informants share common beliefs and values about khamr, recognising its prohibition to Muslims. However, they did not clearly understand the concept of prohibition, thus leading to many misunderstandings about the fiqh of khamr. The reasons for their drinking habits are influenced primarily by peer groups and the government, which did not comply with the shariah, thus leading them to be drinkers.