House Member Condemns 'Newport' Alcohol Promotion Allegedly Using Quranic Verses

If it is true that Quranic verses were used to promote alcoholic beverages, this is not merely a wrong marketing strategy. It has touched the sensitive areas of religion and business ethics, which we must address seriously.

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Member of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Kawendra Lukistian, has strongly condemned the promotion of the alcoholic beverage brand Newport at a music festival, which allegedly involved the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran.

If the promotional material is proven to be true, he said, the act is not merely a matter of marketing creativity, but touches on business ethics, consumer protection, and respect for religious values and the social life of Indonesian society.

“If it is true that Quranic verses were used to promote alcoholic beverages, this is not just a wrong marketing strategy. It has touched the sensitive areas of religion and business ethics, which we must address seriously,” Kawendra said in Jakarta on Tuesday.

“If violations are found, do not stop at an apology or clarification. There must be firm action and sanctions in accordance with the rules,” he said.

In addition, he also asked the Ministry of Trade to evaluate the licensing and distribution aspects of the related product if the investigation finds violations of applicable regulations.

According to him, the business world must indeed be given room to grow and innovate. However, business freedom still has limits, especially when it intersects with religious norms, propriety, and public protection.

“Marketing creativity is also important, but creativity must not sacrifice morality and religious sensitivity in pursuit of sales. This must be our common boundary,” he said.

“The public needs certainty and concrete action. Not just a word of negligence. If it is proven wrong, there must be an evaluation and sanctions that provide a deterrent effect,” he said.

Previously, a video recording circulated on social media showing a Newport alcoholic beverage stand with the sound of someone allegedly reciting verses from the Holy Quran using a loudspeaker.

In a different narrative on social media, the recitation of the holy verses was allegedly carried out as a condition for visitors to obtain the beverage product. The moment occurred at a music festival held in Jakarta some time ago.