KOK’S VIEWS ON PROPOSED HALAL RULE HER OWN, NOT PH’S, SAYS PM

PETALING JAYA: Seputeh MP Teresa Kok’s views, in opposing a proposal to require all food establishments that do not serve pork and alcohol to obtain halal certificates, are her own and do not represent the stance taken by Pakatan Harapan, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar, who is PH chairman, said Kok’s remarks over the matter were unnecessary and only complicated the issue.

“There are legitimate concerns, so some rules are necessary to ensure Muslims feel confident (with the food they consume).

“However, if she (Kok) feels that the proposed rule is unnecessary for some, it would be better to discuss the matter through the proper channels,” he told a press conference after officiating the Seremban (Southbound) R&R area today, Berita Harian reported.

On Thursday, religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar said Jakim is considering the proposal as obtaining halal certification was currently on a voluntary basis for restaurant operators or food business owners.

Na’im acknowledged that the proposal would require several laws to be amended and many agencies to be involved in enforcing it.

In response, Kok said that the move could impose significant burdens on small businesses, restrict consumer freedom, and may clash with Malaysia’s cultural diversity.

The DAP vice-chairman added that making it compulsory may provoke negative reactions domestically and embarrass Malaysia on the international stage.

Kok’s comments drew the ire of several quarters, including Bersatu Youth chief Wan Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal and the Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (DPMM).

On Friday, Wan Fayhsal demanded Kok retract her statement and apologise. He also threatened to lodge a police report against her for allegedly touching on sensitive issues related to race, religion and royalty.

DPMM president Norsyahrin Hamidon, yesterday, said that Kok’s claim that the proposed rule would make Malaysia a subject of ridicule is unfounded and contrary to the reality of the trillion-dollar global halal market.

He said halal certification was not only important for Muslims but also for non-Muslim consumers who increasingly recognise the quality assured through the process.

He added that the mandatory halal certification for eateries that do not serve pork and alcohol would further strengthen the country’s position as a global halal hub.

Norsyahrin claimed that with the appropriate support, particularly in raising awareness and technical assistance, small traders can also adapt and leverage halal certification as a value-add to their businesses.

2024-09-08T03:13:00Z dg43tfdfdgfd