KUALA LUMPUR: Seputeh member of parliament Teresa Kok has defended her statements over a proposal related to halal certification, stressing that her remarks were taken out of context.
"If one reads and analyses my statements comprehensively and in all contexts, it becomes clear and unambiguous that they contain no connotations or references to 3Rs or anything related," she said when reached by the New Straits Times.
Kok said that her duty as an MP was to voice the concerns of the public and address issues faced by those on the ground.
The controversy arose after Kok, who is DAP vice-chairman, had opposed a proposal by the Malaysia Islamic Development Department (Jakim), which would require all food establishments that do not serve pork or alcohol to obtain halal certification.
She is now under investigation for alleged breaches of Sections 298 and 505(b) of the Penal Code, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
"It is both unfortunate and puzzling that the authorities have classified my statements as potentially breaching the law.
"Opening an investigation based on this classification is therefore wholly unnecessary and unwarranted, as no crime has been committed.", Kok said.
Yesterday (Sept 8), Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Kok's comments on the issue do not represent the stance of PH.
"If (Teresa) feels that the regulations are not needed in certain areas, she should discuss it appropriately", he said.
Last Thursday, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar announced that Jakim is reviewing a proposal to require halal certification for restaurants and food companies.