It is a fact, it is also twenty first century and it is also in Malaysia. Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno, a 32 year old model was sentenced to six lashes and a fine of $1400 for consuming alcohol.

She pleaded guilty in the court in Eastern Pahang state to a charge of drinking beer when Islamic Authorities raided a night club in August 2008.

Muslims make up for two thirds of population in Malaysia. Any Muslim offender is prosecuted in Shariah courts which is an Islamic court and deals mainly in cases related to family and moral issues.

Consuming alcohol is a religious offence in Malaysia only for Muslims and Shukarno was the only Muslim caught in the raid at the Pahang nightclub.

Now she will be flogged with a rattan cane six times. It is a rare case as such punishments are usually reserved for men who have committed crimes like rape and others such as taking bribes.