00:00Police have launched an investigation following Seputeh MP Teresa Cox's remarks on a proposal
00:08to make halal certification mandatory for all food establishments that do not serve
00:14pork and alcohol.
00:16Inspector General of Police Raza Rudin Hussain said five reports had been received on the
00:21matter, Haryan Metro reported.
00:24While freedom of expression is provided under the federal constitution, Raza Rudin said
00:29there are legal limits, particularly when statements could incite public disorder.
00:34He added that Cox is being investigated under Sections 298 and 505B of the Penal Code, as
00:42well as Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
00:47Section 298 of the Penal Code prescribes the offence of intentionally wounding the religious
00:52feelings of others, while Section 505B pertains to making statements that incite public disorder.
00:59Section 233 of the CMA is for the misuse of network facilities.
01:05On Thursday, Religious Affairs Minister Naeem Mokhtar said the Malaysian Islamic Development
01:09Department was considering the proposal as obtaining halal certification was currently
01:15on a voluntary basis for restaurant operators or food business owners.
01:21Cox said this proposal could impose significant burdens on small businesses, restrict consumer
01:26freedom, clash with Malaysia's cultural diversity, and embarrass Malaysia on the international
01:32stage.
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