Teresa’s views on halal certification are personal, says Mohamad Sabu

KUALA LUMPUR: Amanah President, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, has described the views of Seputeh MP Teresa Kok on halal certification as personal.

According to the portal Wilayahku, Mohamad Sabu, who is also the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, stated that Malaysia will continue to lead in the global halal industry.

“That is a personal opinion, and Malaysia will continue to lead in halal matters.

“Personal opinions will fade away with time,” he said at a press conference following his media tour at the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture, and Agro-tourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2024, held at the Malaysia Agricultural Exposition Park (MAEPS).

Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Teresa’s statement on halal certification does not represent the stance of Pakatan Harapan (PH).

He noted that the statement by the DAP vice-chairperson has sparked controversy that is irrelevant to the public in this country.

Last Thursday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, stated that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is reviewing the proposal to make halal certification mandatory for restaurants and food companies, although it would exclude establishments serving pork or alcoholic beverages.

In response, Teresa argued that the proposal would restrict consumer choice and contradict the spirit of cultural diversity in the country, and could even embarrass Malaysia on the international stage.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Sabu mentioned that 90 percent of the preparations for MAHA have been completed and everything is proceeding well.

He also noted that 16 countries will participate in MAHA 2024, including the United States, China, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, and others.

MAHA 2024 is scheduled to take place from September 11 to 22.