Zebrew Craftbeer, based in Kuching, Sarawak, has removed its “Santubong” beer from sale following mounting protests that its name offends local cultural sensitivities
Zebrew Craftbeer, a brewer based in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia has removed its “Santubong” beer from sale. The move follows mounting protests led by Santubong Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri who argued that the name was highly insensitive in a Muslim-majority constituency. The decision, announced via Instagram and Facebook, comes after what the brewer described as an “overwhelming response and attention” concerning the product’s name.
The beer in question was brewed and bottled in Sibu, but named after Mount Santubong, an 810-metre landmark near Kuching that is of cultural and touristic significance. Shukri objected to the use of “Santubong” for an alcoholic product on the grounds that it failed to consider the religious sensitivities of her constituents, most of whom are Muslim. She welcomed Zebrew’s withdrawal of the product and expressed gratitude to the community for raising the issue.
The controversy has ignited a wider discussion concerning cultural, religious and regional identity in Sarawak. Chong Chieng Jen, chairman of the Sarawak DAP and MP for Stampin, a Kuching constituency, criticised the withdrawal as undermining Sarawak’s tradition of inclusivity and tolerance. He also argued that naming a beer after a mountain should not be seen as equivalent to denigrating religious values, noting that a few local products, including rice wine or pork exports, also share or derive their names from local places or the region’s cultural heritage.
The withdrawal resembles other past controversies over product names in Malaysia, such as the Timah Whiskey case, in which the debate also centred on whether its name conflicted with religious sensitivities. The federal cabinet eventually allowed the Timah whisky brand to keep its name.
Zebrew produces and markets its other craft beers, including its Zebra Lager Pilsner and Meow Meow brands. As of now, it remains unclear whether Santubong beer will be rebranded under a different name or permanently discontinued.
