Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has been urged to apologise to Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and all Malaysians over the halal certification issue.
Johor DAP committee member Dr Boo Cheng Hau said the cabinet’s recent decision not to mandate halal certification for restaurants and food businesses not selling pork and alcohol had vindicated Kok.
“(The government’s decision) proves that Kok’s concerns over the matter were based on the rule of law and the constitutional rights of all Malaysians.
“Her views reflect the concerns from all walks of life as the people, including Malay and non-Malay small business owners, are facing economic hardship,” he said in a statement today.
The controversy erupted on Sept 8 when Akmal called the DAP lawmaker “Nyonya tua” (old Nyonya) after Kok questioned the proposal for restaurants and businesses not serving pork or alcohol to obtain halal certification, a move reportedly under consideration by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim).
Akmal also remarked that he would urge the government to prepare a non-halal logo to put on Kok’s forehead.
Following the Merlimau assemblyperson’s comments, Kok issued a letter of demand on Sept 11 seeking RM25 million in damages. Akmal responded by stating that he would face her in court.
On Sept 18, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the cabinet’s decision to maintain the status quo on halal certification.
On that note, Boo advised Akmal to resolve the dispute and ongoing legal conflict with Kok, as well as avoid reviving the divisive politics of the past.
“Akmal needs to apologise to Kok personally and settle the disagreement and legal battle amicably.
“He also needs to apologise to all Malaysians for failing to acknowledge the truth and respect the constitutional rights of people of all faiths and work towards uniting the nation.”
Boo further asserted that Akmal should also apologise for failing to acknowledge the Malay rulers’ authority over religious matters and the protection of religious freedom.
This, the DAP leader added, was essential for BN to recover from voter dissatisfaction in Mahkota, which could impact turnout in the Sept 28 by-election. – Malaysiakini