PETALING JAYA: It was not Barisan Nasional’s stance to support the decision to make halal certification mandatory for pork and alcohol-free restaurants, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

The MCA president said this was the message Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi conveyed in his speech during the 78th MIC Annual General Assembly on Sunday (Sept 15).

“In his opening speech, the Barisan Chairman addressed many matters, particularly current issues, including sensitive ones.

“He also said that BN’s stance is not to make it compulsory for pork and alcohol-free restaurants to apply for halal certificates. It’s not a collective decision made by the Cabinet.

“However, any matters or policy changes must be thoroughly reviewed in Cabinet meetings, and all perspectives must be considered,” Dr Wee wrote on his Facebook on Sunday (Sept 15).

“He also emphasised that the community is highly sensitive to halal issues and that all opinions should be approached with mutual respect.

“This reflects the spirit and principles of Barisan, where the interests of the community and the nation are always prioritised.

In the same post, Dr Wee said Ahmad Zahid also announced that the National TVET Council, which the Deputy Prime Minister chairs, would allocate funds to TAFE and VTAR, institutions set up by MIC and MCA, respectively.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/15/dr-wee-affirms-bn039s-stance-on-mandatory-halal-certification