KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) should explain the halal certification issue to avoid misunderstandings.
Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM) lead activist Datuk Nadzim Johan said halal certification went beyond ingredients and included cleanliness among others.
Nadzim said some people did not understand the issue, this could lead to misinformation and this could anger the people.
"Jakim must explain the matter in detail so everyone is aware," he told a press conference.
"Jakim can also invite certain parties to explain the issue to them and I am sure they will be able to accept it."
Nadzim's remarks come amid a probe into Seputeh member of Parliament Teresa Kok over her comments on halal certification.
Kok has come under fire for her remarks on a proposal by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar for all food establishments that do not serve pork or alcohol to obtain halal certification.
She has clarified that she had never opposed the halal certification and only asked for the proposal to be studied as it could be difficult for small restaurants to comply with.
Nadzim said PPIM also received complaints about Kok's statement but said the problem could have been avoided if she was informed on the matter and used the appropriate channels to raise her concerns.