KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 — Muslims are sinning when they break their fasts during the holy month of Ramadan at eateries where alcohol is also on the menu, according Perak Mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria.

Commenting on a recent raid by Islamic authorities on a restaurant here for serving a Ramadan buffet while also selling alcohol, Harussani urged Muslims to avoid outlets with dubious or unknown “halal” status.

“Their fasts are not broken but they will have sinned in such a situation. The punishment is the same as those who drink, serve or sell alcohol,” he was quoted as saying by Malay daily Berita Harian.

Alcohol is considered “haram” or forbidden to Muslims.

Last week, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) raided a restaurant at Jalan Yap Kwan Seng here that had gained popularity among Muslims for its Ramadan buffet, allegedly over the sale of alcohol there.

Sale of alcohol to Muslims is prohibited under local Islamic laws but it is not an offence for an eatery to otherwise serve alcohol with the requisite permits.

Alcohol is readily available at most major hotels in the city that serve the Ramadan buffets popular among Malaysians.

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) also serves alcohol on its international flights, except those to Saudi Arabia.

During the fasting month of Ramadan, Muslims would eat before dawn and fast throughout the day, breaking their fast only after sunset.