This paper discusses the consumption of samsu in Selangor before independence, covering the period from 1900 to 1941. The production and consumption of samsu is a significant issue that has not been thoroughly explored or widely understood. Although samsu is primarily consumed by the Chinese and Indian communities, Malays were not entirely excluded from drinking this alcoholic beverage. This study focuses on the introduction of samsu in Selangor and highlights some factors contributing to its consumption. Several factors contributed to the widespread illegal sale of samsu in Selangor, including economic hardship and poverty, attractive advertising, and weak enforcement of regulations. The closure of toddy shops and the rising cost of samsu production also led to an increase in the demand for illegal samsu. There has been little detailed and specific research on samsu, making this study crucial in providing information and knowledge about samsu in Selangor. Existing research largely focuses on alcohol consumption in general and does not delve deeply into the specific details of samsu consumption. Therefore, this study aims to fill the gaps in previous research and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the development of samsu in Malaysia.
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Ishak, N. S., Dali, A. M., Ishak, N. S., & Roslan, M. F. (2024). The Sale of Samsu in Selangor, 1900-1941. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 14(10), 2497–2510.
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