PAS: Non-Muslim eateries without halal cert shouldn't sell to Muslims

PAS believes non-Muslim eateries without halal certification should not accept Muslim customers or market themselves as Muslim-friendly.

Party secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said this while trying to assert that plans to impose mandatory halal certification on eateries that don't sell pork or alcohol will not affect non-Muslims.

“If examined, it is clear that the Islamic Development Department’s (Jakim) proposal only concerns Muslims, specifically their right to enjoy food that is guaranteed to be halal and not be misled about it.

“In other words, non-Muslim-owned restaurants and eateries should not accept Muslim patrons to premises without a halal certificate, nor should they be allowed to ‘give the impression’ that the products offered ‘can be enjoyed by Muslims’,” he said in a statement today.

The Kota Bharu MP was rebutting Seputeh MP Teresa Kok's criticisms against a proposal to make halal certification mandatory for pork and alcohol-free eateries and food-related businesses.

Kok and others had argued that such a plan would impede many businesses, including Muslim-owned ones.

Seputeh MP Teresa Kok

The DAP lawmaker also said that such a rule would interfere with customers' right to choose and make Malaysia an object of global ridicule.

Her comments had sparked outrage from conservatives.

Be tactful

Takiyuddin said that PAS supports Kok's right to voice her opinions but emphasised that she should have been more careful in her remarks and ensure that they do not cause tensions.

He then accused Kok of giving a misleading impression of Islam and its administration in Malaysia.

“By suggesting that the - proposed - implementation of halal certification in restaurants and eateries violates the rights and freedoms of non-Muslims, Kok also implies that the practice of Islam in this country poses a 'threat' to them.

“This is, of course, an irresponsible and misguided depiction, seemingly aimed at creating division,” Takiyuddin added.

In defending the proposed mandatory certification, Takiyuddin said there had been numerous instances where the absence of clear halal certification had caused distrust and suspicion among the public.

While PAS agreed that Muslims should be more vigilant in their choices, he said the government also has a role in ensuring that the situation is better regulated. - Mkini