I'm not here to talk about alcoholism. I don't drink so I don't know how that's like. My friend was fine and him drinking did not interfere with his personal and professional life so I didn't question him. So, end of story.
Regarding the religion issue. That's the problem. People ask the world to be open, to be more critical, but when it comes to organized religion, it's a big no-no, they close their mind. It's fine if you want to be critical but why you have to force others to do the same? What's real harms have organized religions done to people other than "mimic and memorize"? Terorrism? I don't think it's as much the religion as the people that are messed up. People are messed up.
I live in a country whose culture is tied very tightly with religious traditions. I don't see my country as backward or outdated because of my religion. My country survives until now. In fact we live with other major religions like Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity, but we live harmoniously with each other. Some of us are Muslim scientists, Buddhist good samaritans, Christian successful businessmen, so I don't see your point frankly.
I admit Malaysia does need to be a gay-friendlier country, but that's another issue not pointed out by the OP. If you are a religious gay such as me, I just date. There are many religious gays in here and they can date whoever they want. We just need to compromise, which is something that you do even if you're not religious and you're in a relationship.
Let people believe in unicorns if they wish as long as it brings benefits to the believers. Who are we to question their belief?