KUCHING: Sarawak Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah called for respect and understanding following recent criticism of the Dayak community’s pork-eating habits, urging Malaysians to honour all of God’s creation regardless of faith or ethnicity.
The call follows Puncak Borneo Member of Parliament Datuk Willie Mongin’s appeal for Malaysians to respect the food culture of all communities.
During a debate in Parliament, he spoke out against social media comments insulting certain foods, especially those labelling pork as ‘dirty’ or ‘disgusting’.
“I have been following YB Willie Mongin’s speech in Parliament regarding current issues facing Malaysia, as well as the reactions on social media, especially concerning pig farming in Selangor. The matter has sparked widespread attention,” Abdul Karim said at a press conference today (Jan 23).
The State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister stressed that pigs are God’s creatures and deserve respect, regardless of dietary restrictions or religious beliefs.
“Some people eat pork, others do not. But it should never reach the point where the animal is labelled as ‘unclean’ or ‘evil’. Such views go against the Almighty. Whether Muslim, Christian, or of any other faith, we must respect God’s creation,” he said.
Abdul Karim clarified that, to his knowledge, there has been no issue with non-Muslims consuming pork in Malaysia.
The primary concern raised by the Sultan of Selangor and others revolves around pig farming practices, not the act of eating pork.
“I believe even Muslims do not forbid others – be they Dayaks, Chinese, or any other community from eating pork. If you feel like eating it, that’s your food,” he added.
He also criticised social media comments that unfairly linked dietary habits to corruption.
“Corruption exists among Malays, Chinese, and Dayaks alike; it happens everywhere. We should not associate corruption with whether someone eats pork or not,” Abdul Karim said.
Urging Malaysians to avoid ethnic or religious stereotyping, he called for unity and mutual respect.
“If you want to eat pork, eat pork. It’s up to you. That is how I see it,” he said.
