PENAMPANG, April 14 -- Organisers are banning the sale and serving of alcoholic beverages in its houses during the state-level Pesta Kaamatan celebrations at Hongkod Koisaan to improve the cultural authenticity and visitor experience at this year's celebration.  

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said that over the two-day "open house" celebration, only traditional drinks will be served to visitors.

"Don't fret. The traditional drinks are 'dangerous' too. They can also be intoxicating," he said, adding that alcohol, presumably imported beer, can be sold in the other open areas within the  Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) complex.

He was speaking at a press conference after chairing the main committ...