By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 22: Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin has called on Malaysians to stop mocking or insulting the food traditions of other communities, warning that such behaviour undermines national unity and harmony.
Speaking during the debate on the Motion of Thanks for the Royal Address in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday (Jan 21), Willie said he was concerned by social media comments that demean certain foods, particularly pork, which is commonly consumed by the Dayak community.
“I want to remind Malaysians not to insult the food of other races. I see on social media many people saying pork is dirty, smelly, and so on. This shows a lack of respect for other people’s food,” he said.
Willie stressed that the Dayak community has never mocked or belittled the dietary practices of others, despite being frequently stigmatised for consuming pork.
“As Dayaks, we have never insulted or humiliated other people’s food. That is why many of us who eat pork do not take bribes, do not take drugs, and do not do strange things,” he said.
He expressed disappointment that the community is still accused of being uncivilised because of its food culture.
“But we are accused of eating pork and being uncivilised. I think this must stop, by Malaysians and by any party,” he said.
While acknowledging that food preferences may differ, Willie emphasised that mutual respect must prevail.
“If pork has a certain smell, what about budu (fermented fish sauce) and belacan? We have never insulted them,” he said.
He urged Malaysians to heed the royal call for unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that respect among communities is essential for national development.
“We must respect one another so that we can live harmoniously in Malaysia. Do not provoke issues,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with neighbouring countries, Willie said Malaysia should emulate their unity in pursuing development.
“Countries like Singapore, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand can unite to develop their nations. Why not Malaysia?” he asked.
He concluded by expressing hope that Malaysians would uphold and honour the royal address in the spirit of unity and mutual respect. — DayakDaily
