KOTA KINABALU – Sabah assemblyman Aliakbar Gulasan, who is from PAS, has refuted claims that he had called for stores selling non-halal products to stop selling such items.
He said his recent statement has been misconstrued and that he had never called for local stores and markets to stop selling non-halal products, but only advised such businesses to be more sensitive.
“We are not stopping them from selling such items. I had received calls from the public on the matter and those who made such claims have misunderstood my intention.
“What I meant is for the stores to come up with measures so those who cannot consume such materials can go to their premises without any worry,” he told The Vibes today.
Yesterday, Aliakbar had reportedly said that all stores should be “sensitive” and segregate shopping trolleys, in commenting on an incident relating to the use of trolleys and non-halal products.
He said shopping outlets should be sensitive to the needs of various religions in Sabah.
Aliakbar said he also had received numerous positive comments from the public over his call.
He said there was no reason for Sabahans to misinterpret his statement as the communities are already united in diversity.
For instance, Aliakbar said, it is already a practice for non-Muslims to make special dining arrangements for Muslims during events like weddings.
James Chin, a professor of Asian studies, wrote on Facebook: “Many people warned about PAS getting a foothold in Sabah. The KDM (Kadazan Dusun Murut) parties in the government could do nothing.
“Now look at what is happening… Soon, it will be the swimming pool, cinemas etc. One item at a time... Sarawak, please learn from Sabah,” he said.
In 2015, the then Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism Ministry had proposed the segregation of trolleys at supermarket, but Sabahans have called such a practice unnecessary. – The Vibes, June 9, 2021
