00:00Seputu MP Theresa Cox's views in opposing a proposal to require all food establishments
00:08that do not serve pork and alcohol to obtain halal certificates are her own and do not
00:13represent Pakatan Harapan's stance, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
00:18Anwar, who is PH Chairman, said Cox's remarks over the matter were unnecessary and only
00:25complicated the issue.
00:27He acknowledged that some rules are needed to ensure Muslims feel confident about the
00:32food they consume.
00:34Anwar said if Cox felt the proposed rule was unnecessary, it would be better to discuss
00:39it through the proper channels.
00:42On Thursday, Religious Affairs Minister Naeem Mokhtar said JAKIM is considering the proposal
00:47as obtaining halal certification is currently voluntary for restaurant operators or food
00:52business owners.
00:54In response, Cox said that the move could impose significant burdens on small businesses,
01:00restrict consumer freedom, and clash with Malaysia's cultural diversity.
01:05The DAP Vice-Chairman added that making it compulsory may provoke negative reactions
01:10domestically and embarrass Malaysia on the international stage.
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