KUALA LUMPUR: The police have launched an investigation following remarks by Seputeh MP Teresa Kok over the proposal requiring all eateries that do not serve pork or alcohol to obtain halal certificates.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said five police report were lodged.

“While freedom of speech is permitted under the Federal Constitution, it has its limits.

“We advise all Malaysians not to issue statements that could cause public distress and jeopardise racial harmony. All citizens should embody the spirit of the Rukun Negara,” he said yesterday.

The IGP said Kok was being investigated under Section 298 and Section 505(b) of the Penal Code as well as Section 233 of the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Act 1998.

“We will conduct the investigation as per standard operating procedure on cases involving 3R (race, religion, royalty) matters.

“All witnesses and persons of interest will be called up to have their statements recorded to complete the investigation.”

It was reported that Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) was considering making halal certification compulsory for restaurants and food establishments that do not serve pork or alcohol.

Kok had voiced her opposition to the proposal saying that it could be burdensome to small businesses and restricts consumer freedom.

Last week, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said that to enforce mandatory halal certification, several laws would need to be amended.

He added that various agencies would need to be involved in ensuring compliance.

In a statement yesterday, Kok said she will give her full cooperation to the police and that it was her duty as an MP to voice the problems and voices of people from all races.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/09/cops-to-probe-teresa-koks-remarks-on-proposed-halal-certs