Armed forces to stop selling duty-free beer at Pernama outlets

The armed forces has decided to stop the sale of duty-free beer at outlets operated by its trading arm, Pernama, ending a practice that has been in place for more than six decades.

A manager at a Pernama outlet, speaking on condition of anonymity, said operators recently received a directive from the office of the armed forces chief instructing them to cease sales once existing stocks are exhausted.

No reason was given for the decision.

According to the manager, Pernama, which has some 80 outlets nationwide, was also told not to place fresh orders, typically made every six months.

The manager said current stocks are expected to run dry by the end of the year.

Under current regulations, non-Muslim servicemen and veterans may purchase up to two crates of beer monthly, each containing 48 cans or bottles, from Pernama.

An ex-serviceman, who also requested anonymity, said beer purchased from Pernama is typically about 60% cheaper than at regular retail outlets.

Pernama is fully owned by the Armed Forces Fund Board, a statutory body under the defence ministry.

Besides alcohol products, the outlets also sell duty-free electrical appliances, with each serviceman entitled to purchase one such item during their career.

When contacted, a Pernama spokesman confirmed that the directive had been issued to all of its outlets.

“As for the reasons behind the directive, we will seek an explanation from the Malaysian Armed Forces public relations office,” the spokesman told FMT.

The spokesman said Pernama is tasked with ensuring military personnel and eligible beneficiaries enjoy their privileges “in accordance with all relevant directives and policies”.

The ex-serviceman said he and many of his peers were disappointed by the sudden directive, describing the duty-free benefit as one of the few privileges they continue to enjoy after years of service to the nation.

“Most of us are casual drinkers who enjoy small amounts occasionally. I am already 75 years old and I am okay health wise as I don’t abuse alcohol.

“The defence ministry must explain its decision,” he said when contacted.

FMT has reached out to the defence ministry for comment.

Earlier this month, the New Straits Times reported that military personnel and veterans would be able to purchase essential goods at discounted prices throughout the year under a new initiative by the defence ministry through Pernama.

Under the programme, they are entitled to discounts of up to 30% on 308 items.

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