M'sian driver warns Muslim delivery riders about delivering CNY hampers containing alcohol

A Malaysian delivery driver has cautioned fellow Muslim riders to be careful when accepting Chinese New Year (CNY) hamper delivery jobs, warning that many festive gift packages may contain alcoholic beverages such as wine.

Driver refuses any request with alcohol

In a Facebook post addressed specifically to Muslim drivers, Muhamad Afif urged them to confirm the contents of hampers before heading to pick them up, saying alcohol is often included as part of CNY gift sets.

The reminder comes as delivery platforms see an increase in hamper orders during the festive period, with many businesses and households sending gifts to clients, friends and relatives.

The Lalamove driver, Afif, wrote that he had encountered such deliveries several times and, upon realising alcohol was included, asked customers to change drivers on the spot.

He also encouraged customers to clearly state in the delivery remarks that a hamper contains wine, so that other Muslim drivers would not unknowingly accept the job.

Not just about income

In his post, Afif also noted that some bottles in hampers could resemble common condiments such as soy sauce, and advised riders to check labels carefully before assuming they are non-alcoholic.

He cautioned that festive packaging may make it difficult to tell the difference at a glance.

The driver framed his message as a religious reminder, stressing that Muslims should avoid actions considered sinful in Islam such as the handling of alcohol.

He urged fellow riders not to let financial pressure or fear of losing income lead them into transporting alcohol, telling them to think about their families and spiritual responsibilities.

Netizens weigh in

Most commenters wondered whether merely delivering alcohol, as opposed to consuming it, is also considered haram.

Some commenters also noted that they had previously received alcohol deliveries from Muslim riders, while others questioned where the boundary is drawn and what they saw as inconsistency — pointing to other widely accepted “sins”, such as smoking, or other indirect involvement in the alcohol trade.

There were others, however, who thanked the driver for the reminder as hamper deliveries with alcohol are common during major festive seasons.

Top images via lalamovemalaysia/Facebook, Canva