We thank Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman Pengiran Haji Omar for posting in the Opinion column of Borneo Bulletin dated November 17, 2012 entitled 'Halal-Haram section has an obligation to the nation' and the Halal Food Control Section of the Syariah Affairs Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs takes that opinion seriously.

Upon scrutinising the opinion written by Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman, it was found that there exists some confusion and misunderstanding, especially related to legislation set for the Halal Food Control Section in carrying out its duties, such as the use of Halal Meat Act Cap 183 and Halal Certificate and Label Order 2005, as well as any Syara' Law related issues.

Therefore, to clarify this matter, it is beneficial if Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman Pengiran Haji Omar and Mat Bairn can have a meeting with the senior officers at the Halal Food Control Section at a convenient time.

The Halal Food Control Section believes that with the suggested meeting, any doubt and misunderstanding can be clarified.

Furthermore, from the suggested meeting, Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman Pengiran Haji Omar and Mat Baim can help the Halal Food Control Section in explaining the doubts to the public besides helping to look for a formula and method that is easy and practical to fulfil the need of the Muslims in this country, in line with what Allah the Almighty says in Surah Al-Maidah verse 2: "And help each other in doing good and pious acts and not in sin and enmity".