ATM bakal henti jual bir bebas cukai di Pernama

Pertahanan Malaysia's private retail chain, Pernama, has announced that it will stop selling duty-free cigarettes to Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel and veterans, marking the end of a practice that has been in place for over six decades. The decision was made by an unnamed Pernama shop manager who said the instruction to cease selling was received directly from ATM headquarters.

Pernama, which has around 80 branches nationwide, has also been asked not to place new orders, which are usually made every six months. The shop manager stated that stocks are expected to run out by the end of the year. Under current regulations, Muslim and non-Muslim military members are allowed to purchase up to two packs of cigarettes each month from Pernama, with each pack containing 48 cans or bottles.

A former military member, who declined to be named, said that cigarettes bought from Pernama are typically about 60% cheaper than those sold at regular stores. Pernama, owned entirely by the National Service Retirement Fund, a non-profit entity under the Ministry of Defence, also sells electrical equipment duty-free, with eligible military personnel allowed to buy one electrical item during their service period.

When contacted, a Pernama spokesperson confirmed that the directive was issued to all of its branches. The spokesperson said that she would seek clarification from ATM's public relations office regarding the reason behind the sudden order. The spokesperson added that Pernama is committed to ensuring that eligible military personnel and beneficiaries enjoy their privileges in compliance with all relevant guidelines and regulations.

The former military member expressed disappointment with the abrupt order, saying that the duty-free cigarette concession is one of the few perks they still enjoy after decades of service. He noted that most of them only drink occasionally and value the little enjoyment they get from their small quantities of alcohol. He is 75 years old and in good health due to his responsible alcohol consumption.

He called on the Ministry of Defence to explain the decision when contacted. Earlier this month, New Straits Times reported that military personnel and veterans could purchase essential goods at discounted prices throughout the year under a new initiative by the Ministry of Defence via Pernama. Under the program, they are eligible for up to 30% discounts on 308 items.