Samsu (Intoxicating Liquor) is popular among youth

Samsu is a cheap intoxicating liquor, widely consumed by young people. A recent CAP survey showed that once commonly consumed by estates workers and village folks has now become a trendy drink among the urbanites. It is popularly drank by youth of all races.
It has been a common practice among youths, mixing this samsu with cola or carbonated drink or pours it into plastic bags with ice cubes and sips it with straws.

The alcohol content in this cheap liquor is alarming high ranging from 17% to 48%. Alcohol associated diseases includes cancers, liver disorders, cirrhosis of liver and heart ailments due to its high content of alcohol the health of many poor people are ruined. Manufacturers of samsu have resorted to many misleading health claims. One brand recommends it for anaemia, loss of appetite, indigestion and healing properties.
Children as young as 12 years can be found consuming samsu and our survey showed that mainly school dropouts are easy targets of this cheap liquor.

There are over hundreds brands of samsu available in the market. This intoxicating liquor gained its popularity because of its cheap price and easy availability. Buying samsu is as simple as buying sweets or candy in sundry shops. Anyone including children can buy it without any hassle.

The price for a bottle of Samsu 150ml varies from between RM3.00 to RM5.00 per bottle, hence making it affordable to children.
Regular drinkers can easily buy samsu on credit.

Under Section 32(1) and 33 (1) of the Excise Act 1976, no person can sell (either wholesale or retail) intoxicating liquor either for use within a premise or outside without a license. The license issued must specify the precise place where sale is allowed. Any sale without a license is an offence under the Act.

A license is required for the sale of samsu. However the demand is great so some shops do not even bother to apply for license to sell this killer brew.

In the past CAP has made several reports to the Customs and Excise Department about the illegal sale of samsu. However till today the illegal sale of samsu is prevailing. More and more unlicensed dealers are engaging in samsu sale.