Akmal said every consumer had the right to question the authenticity of a halal logo, and that the Islamic development department (Jakim) had confirmed the sandwich supplier did not hold a halal certificate.
“Since when is discussing the rights of Muslim consumers considered political?
“This is a serious offence with profound implications for Muslims, and those responsible for this deceit must face severe action, regardless of who owns the business!” he said in a Facebook post.
The Merlimau assemblyman also asked whether Wee was personally acquainted with the owner of the sandwich company.
Yesterday, Wee urged Akmal to refrain from politicising the issue, saying it could harm the country’s business environment and hinder foreign investment.
He said that politicians should not exploit such controversies to score political mileage as this would only exacerbate divisiveness in society and fill the business environment with hatred and instability.
Wee added that any disputes involving religion or the halal certification of food should be handled by the relevant professional bodies, such as Jakim.
PKR central leadership council member Fahmi Zainol, in defending Akmal today, said MCA had gone overboard with its criticism of the Umno Youth chief.
Fahmi said Akmal voicing out over the matter had nothing to do with political mileage, but was about respecting the sanctity of Islam.
“I strongly condemn MCA’s insolent remarks in response to the criticism raised by Akmal,” the Pantai Jerejak assemblyman said in a statement.
DAP Youth chief Woo Kah Leong had also claimed that the incident was sensationalised by Akmal, making it seem as if no action had been taken on the matter when in fact the university had ordered the immediate closure of the shops.
Woo added that DAP Youth was confident all universities under the purview of the higher education minister, who is an Umno politician, would not compromise on such issues.
Akmal had urged the police and relevant agencies to take action after UM shut down two KK Mart concept stores on campus to ensure no interference in investigations.
He said that old wounds regarding the sale of socks bearing the word “Allah” at KK Mart convenience stores last year had yet to heal.