KOTA KINABALU: No traces of porcine DNA were found in any of the tested sandwich samples suspected of misusing the halal logo, says Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.
The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister said the confirmation came from the Chemistry Department, the authority responsible for such matters.
"There were concerns about the presence of porcine DNA, but the Chemistry Department has confirmed that none of the samples tested contained it," he said.
Speaking at the Sentuhan Kasih, Jualan Rahmah Madani, and Consumer Advocacy Programme in Bandar Ramai-Ramai, Sandakan, on Sunday (Feb 16), Armizan stressed that the investigation was conducted transparently and in consultation with the relevant authorities.
He also assured the public that legal action was taken swiftly, despite allegations of delays.
“The issue went viral on Jan 10, and our enforcement officers acted immediately. By Jan 13, we had collected evidence and sent the sandwich samples for testing.
"On Jan 14, we referred the case to the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) regarding the halal logo. By Jan 20, we received the Chemistry Department’s findings,” he said.
Armizan added that the case was handed over to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), which approved prosecution on Jan 23, and legal action was taken the next day.
He stressed that strict action would be taken against any misuse of the halal logo and urged businesses to comply with regulations.
"This is not a trivial matter. While we are not the issuing authority for halal certification, we will enforce the law and welcome reports from the public," he added.
