KUALA LUMPUR – Former transport minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (Ayer Hitam-BN) revealed to the Dewan Rakyat that he was legally contacted over his unfavourable comments on importing eggs from India.
During his debate on Budget 2023 today, Wee commended the Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu for providing funds of RM1.28 billion to continue egg subsidies until June 30.
However, he added that a lawyer representing egg-importing companies contacted him, claiming that his comments had led to the companies from India suffering from losses.
“Thank you (for introducing funds for subsidies), as breeders can plan their breeding to ensure sufficient chicken and egg supplies,” he said.
“But, I was suddenly served with a letter by lawyers from egg-importing companies, forcing me to make a statement,” he added.
Unfazed, Wee simply asserted that it was his responsibility as a representative of the people to raise the issue, and questioned what his fault was for doing so.
“I have to show (the lawyers) that this is my field as a representative of the people, I was called to bring this issue.
“What is my fault?” he asked, adding that he will disclose the incident on his Facebook account.
When asked by Datuk Mohd Radzi Jidin (Putrajaya-PN) whether he could list several companies that imported eggs into Malaysia, Wee said he did not mention any as he is unsure himself.
He quipped that despite not mentioning any firms, he still “got sued”.
Previously, Wee said relying on egg imports from India is not the solution for its shortage in his debate at the royal address on February 15.
He referred to a report by Berita Harian on December 22, which said the import prices are 50 sen per egg, adding the price was expensive considering the imports’ quality will drop by the time they arrive in the country.
In another session on February 22, Wee brought two eggs – one from India, and another local – to prove his point.
He said that the egg from India was smaller, despite being priced at 50 sen, while the larger local egg was better priced, ranging between 43 to 45 sen. – The Vibes, February 28, 2023
