KUALA LUMPUR: The Halal Industry Development Council should convene halal industry stakeholders to issue a firm response to Seputeh member of parliament (MP) Teresa Kok's recent comments on halal certification.
Key stakeholders include the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), Halal Development Corporation (HDC), Malaysia International Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MIICCI), relevant ministries, and government agencies.
MIICCI national chairman Muhamad Amin Fahmi said Teresa's views on halal certification have sparked widespread anger and are unacceptable.
"MIICCI strongly condemns the MP's outdated views, which show a complete lack of sensitivity to the Muslim community's food concerns in Malaysia.
"Her opinions seem detached from reality and have led to backward remarks that tarnish the country's reputation. As a veteran politician, Teresa should have thought more carefully before making public statements that could disrupt societal harmony," he said in a statement.
Teresa was recently quoted saying that halal certification should be voluntary, allowing businesses to decide based on market demand rather than being forced.
The DAP MP argued that mandating halal certification for restaurants and food companies would complicate operations and burden small businesses, particularly with increased administrative costs.
Muhamad Amin countered, saying the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, offered a perspective that should be seen positively.
"Teresa must respect the views of the Minister of Religious Affairs, which are significant to the Muslim majority.
"MIICCI, representing Muslim traders and halal industry advocates, fully supports the minister's proposal to mandate halal certification for all food and beverage establishments," he said, calling it a bold move long-awaited by Malaysia's Muslim community.
"MIICCI is confident this initiative will mark a new chapter for Malaysia's halal industry and serve as a model for other countries," he added.