Politicising Controversies Will Only Brew Hatred Professional Certification Bodies Must Be Respected

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UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh needs to refrain from politicising the sale of “halal ham and cheese sandwich”.
Not only is such an action unnecessary, but it could also potentially result in a negative impact on the country’s business environment and even hinder foreign investment.
Any dispute involving religion or halal certification of food should be handled by professional and relevant bodies such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).
We are confident in the capabilities of these institutions and believe they are well-equipped to resolve such issues without politicians meddling or amplifying the topic excessively on social media.
Politicians should not exploit such controversies to score political mileage as this only exacerbates divisiveness in society and fills the business environment with hatred and instability.
Politicising every business decision or product severely undermines Malaysia’s attractiveness. Businesses want to operate in a fair and stable environment, not one fraught with controversy and uncertainty.
This kind of conduct not only erodes the confidence of local businesses but also deters foreign investment, ultimately damaging the country’s economic interests.
As a multi-cultural and multi-religious nation, Malaysians must safeguard social harmony and inclusivity. Any attempt to politicise issues and create division warrant a rebuke.
Extremist statements by politicians are not only unconstructive but can also expand distrust between ethnic groups. If such prejudices continue to fester, this will leave long-term negative effects on the nation’s social and economic development.
All sectors of society need to focus their energy on more important matters concerning national development, such as improving people’s standard of living, enticing foreign investments, promoting economic growth, and strengthening social unity.
The onus is on politicians as public figures in public service to uplift the welfare of citizens and generate more economic opportunities for the country, not to gain attention by manufacturing controversy.
Any issues related to halal certification should be properly addressed through professional channels, avoiding the devolution of these controversies into political battles.
When everyone performs their part to ensure that Malaysia remains a peaceful, inclusive, and business-friendly nation, trust deficit issues will be assuaged and would-be investors would be encouraged.
Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng is the MCA vice president and the Tanjung Piai MP.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of  MMKtT.
- Focus Malaysia.

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