Halal cert proposal: Religious minister to present in cabinet next week

The findings of a study on the mandatory halal certification proposal are expected to be presented to the cabinet next week.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the presentation will be made by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.

Fahmi said issues surrounding the enforcement of halal certificates were discussed from time to time but any proposed policies must be presented in the cabinet meeting.

“The findings of the study and report from the religious minister will be tabled next week,” he said in a press conference today.

The proposal that was first announced by Na’im has seen lawmakers trading barbs over the issue.

Among the lawmakers was DAP’s Seputeh MP Teresa Kok who is currently being investigated by the police for her criticism of the proposal, saying it would impede many businesses including Muslim-owned eateries.

The DAP vice-chairperson’s remarks sparked fiery reactions, particularly from Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh and Bersatu Youth chief Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Kamal, who said Kok crossed the line by interfering in Muslim affairs.

Three days ago, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Kok’s statement did not represent Pakatan Harapan’s view on the matter and advised leaders to present their concerns in meetings so they could be examined.

Previously, Na’im announced that the government was mulling mandatory halal certificates for eateries that do not serve pork and alcohol.

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