Election debutant Parti Bersama Malaysia has stirred up a hornet’s nest after its N46 Perling candidate, Boo Wei Han, waded into the highly sensitive issue of pig farming during his Johor state election campaign.
Drawing from the Selangor experience, the businessman — known as the “Kancil man” — expressed hope that the Johor state government would reverse its decision to shut down pig farms. He highlighted the hardship faced by families who have operated these businesses for “two to three generations.”
“I wonder why pigs have become such an issue when people have been raising them for 30 to 40 years,” Boo said during the Kancil Truck Tour ceramah in Taman Pelangi, Johor Bahru on Sunday (June 28).
“Have people died living next to the pig pens? Have people gotten sick?” he asked.
Rafizi Defends Candidate
Bersama co-leader Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who was present at the ceramah, defended Boo’s remarks. The former economy minister, who has since left PKR, argued that the comments were not only about fostering inclusivity but also reflected the fundamental responsibility of an elected representative to defend minority communities.
“Many people have sent me messages saying our candidate is finished because he spoke about the issue of Chinese eating pork,” Rafizi said. “But I ask you — isn’t this an issue that is close to the hearts of some Chinese voters? We are not telling Malays to eat pork. We are also not telling everyone to celebrate it. When we become elected representatives, we must represent every rakyat.”
Rafizi also took a swipe at rival parties, questioning why those who claim to represent the Chinese community had remained silent on the matter.
“Don’t ask me or Wei Han. Ask why DAP is not speaking. Ask why MCA is not speaking. That is the voice of the common people,” he jibed.
Ultimately, the episode underscores a broader point: minority communities rely on their elected representatives to voice their concerns, and legitimate issues deserve attention regardless of race or background.
Source : Focus
