Timah manufacturer to consider change of name for whiskey

The manufacturer behind homegrown whiskey brand Timah has agreed to consider a change of name and image for the alcoholic beverage following the controversy that broke early last month in which several quarters claimed that these might be confusing for Muslims.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi said a meeting had been held with representatives from the company and several other ministers.

“The company Winepark Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd has asked for a week to discuss a change of name and image on the label with their shareholders and board of directors,” he said in a statement today.

He added that the meeting which was held through a hybrid approach was held in a harmonious manner in line with the Malaysian Family concept to find a resolution for the good of the country.

Named after the Malay word for “tin”, Timah is Malaysia’s first locally produced, award winning whiskey.

Winepark had said in a Facebook post on Oct 16 that the label features Captain Tristram Speedy, an English officer who was in Malaya during the British colonial era.

However, several quarters had objected to the name and image, with police reports lodged on the matter.