Teresa Kok, a senior Malaysian politician and member of parliament for Seputeh, is currently under police investigation for urging the government not to implement mandatory halal food certifications for certain eateries. In response to a proposal by Minister Dr. Mohd Na’im Mokhtar requiring halal certification for restaurants that do not sell pork or alcohol, Kok stressed that her comments were not questioning halal certification or disrespecting Islam. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and DAP chief Anthony Loke have also weighed in on the issue, expressing differing views on Kok’s remarks.
Kok’s call for halal certification to be voluntary, rather than mandatory, sparked a police investigation under several sections of the Penal Code and the Communications and Multimedia Act. Police confirmed that JAKIM representatives would be among those called in to complete the investigation. Kok defended her position in a Facebook post, emphasizing her support for the government’s efforts to promote halal certification in the food and beverage industry. She also acknowledged the high standards of JAKIM’s certification process, but maintained her stance that businesses should be allowed to decide based on market demand.
Kok’s call for a government review of the proposal received criticism from various political parties and figures, who viewed her comments as unnecessary and complicating the issue. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim clarified that Kok’s remarks did not represent the official stance of PH and suggested that she should have raised her concerns through proper channels. DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke emphasized Kok’s responsibility as an MP to voice concerns affecting the public, particularly in regard to non-Muslim restaurants potentially being affected by halal certification requirements.
Former law minister Zaid Ibrahim voiced his support for Kok, urging Muslim leaders not to be emotional when a non-Muslim leader raises concerns about halal food certification. He criticized the investigation into Kok, stating that she should not be viewed as a troublemaker. Kok, a former Minister of Primary Industries in the PH administration, has faced controversy in the past, including being charged with sedition in 2014 over a satirical YouTube video. The charge was later dropped, and earlier this year, she found two bullets and a threatening letter in her mailbox.
The ongoing police investigation into Teresa Kok’s comments regarding halal food certification has sparked debate and differing views from political leaders in Malaysia. Kok has defended her stance on the issue, arguing for voluntary certification rather than mandatory requirements for restaurants. While facing criticism from various parties, Kok’s supporters have emphasized her right to voice concerns as an MP. The investigation has raised questions about freedom of speech and the ability of politicians to express differing views without facing scrutiny. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to Kok’s remarks and the broader implications for religious and cultural practices in Malaysia.
