KUALA LUMPUR: Seputeh member of parliament, Teresa Kok, clarified that she raised the halal certification issue in public as she did not have the opportunity to voice her views through internal channels.
The DAP publicity secretary said that the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, raised the proposal in an open forum without prior engagement with MPs.
She stated that she supports the government's efforts, particularly by Jakim, to promote halal certification in the food and beverage industry.
"In fact, the standards used by Jakim in halal certification are among the highest in the world."
"I have been promoting Malaysia's halal certification since 2008 when I held the position of Selangor's Exco for Trade, Industry, and Investment, and continue to do so today," she said in a statement.
She added that in many meetings with foreign government delegations and agencies, one of the key agenda items raised was encouraging them to obtain Malaysian halal certification if they wish to export food to Malaysia or other Muslim countries.
"As an MP, I am responsible for voicing the concerns of people from all ethnic groups."
"That's why I asked the government to review this proposal. My statement was in no way intended to question halal certification, Jakim's role, or disrespect Islam," she explained.
She also expressed her willingness to fully cooperate with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), should they call her in for questioning.
Recently, Teresa said in a social media post that halal certification should be voluntary, allowing businesses to decide based on market demand, rather than making it mandatory.
She argued that requiring restaurants and food companies to have halal certification would add operational challenges and burden small businesses.
Last Thursday, the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) announced that Jakim is reviewing a proposal to make halal certification mandatory for restaurants and food companies.
Teresa's statement has drawn criticism from various parties, including Umno leaders, opposition members, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).