Abdullah was responding to a statement from another one of Adenan’s political secretaries, Michael Tiang, who said the fast food giant’s policy was not welcome in Sarawak.
“It should be noted that McDonald’s is a business entity and its policies are its business decisions,” said Abdullah, adding that Tiang had made his statement in his personal capacity.
“The Sarawak government has no direct or indirect interest in McDonald’s, so why would we interfere with its business decisions unless it has contravened some laws or business guidelines?” he said in a statement today.
Abdullah, who is also Semop assemblyman, said the state’s multiracial unity and high level of tolerance was among the best in Malaysia.
“Kuching was announced as the first City of Unity in Malaysia. This is something we should be proud of and all Sarawakians – it doesn’t matter which political party you support – should try to maintain and uphold this unique and colourful image,” he said.
Abdullah said he did not understand how the issue of whether cake was halal or non-halal could cause religious and racial extremism.
“McDonald’s in Singapore has similar policies. Are we going to see extremism in Singapore?” he asked.
He said Adenan was more concerned about the wellbeing of the people, especially those in the rural areas, and the acquisition of more funds from the federal government to develop the state.
“I believe the majority of Sarawakians are mature enough not to be disturbed by this trivial issue. Racial and religious bigots are the last thing we need in Sarawak.
“Efforts to maintain peace and harmony in our plural society in Sarawak should prevail over political agendas,” he said.
Abdullah stressed sensitivities must be respected and any person who failed to do so and acted chauvinistically was not welcome.
Last week, McDonald’s confirmed it had implemented a policy barring cakes without halal certification from its premises.
Tiang had said McDonald’s policy on halal-certified cakes was incompatible with Sarawak’s multi-cultural and religious society.