Seputeh MP Teresa Kok (
pic) has defended her remarks about a proposed halal certification rule, saying she could not raise her views through internal Pakatan Harapan channels because the matter had been raised at a public forum.
Kok, who is DAP vice-chairman, said the proposed halal requirement was publicly brought up by religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar, who had done so without getting the views of other MPs.
“As such, I have no opportunity to convey views through internal channels,” she said in a statement this evening, following a reprimand by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim who is also PH chairman.
The proposal raised by Na’im last Thursday was to require mandatory halal certification of food establishments that do not serve pork and alcohol.
In response, Kok said the move could impose significant burdens on small businesses, restrict consumer freedom, and may clash with Malaysia’s cultural diversity.
Anwar said earlier today that if Kok felt the proposed rule was unnecessary for some, "it would be better to discuss the matter through the proper channels." He said her remarks were unnecessary and only complicated the issue.
Kok said this evening that as an MP she is responsible for voicing the problems faced by the people of all communities which is why "I asked the government to review this proposal."
."My statement does not at all mean that I question halal certification, Jakim’s role, or disrespect Islam," she said, adding that she supported the government’s efforts, especially those of Jakim, to promote halal certification in the food and beverage industry.
Kok’s earlier comments led to a police investigation after reports were filed against her, following criticisms from Bersatu Youth chief Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal, Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh, the Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia and others.
