PENANG April 24, 2026 – Democratic Action Party (DAP) Bukit Gelugor Member of Parliament Ramkarpal Singh has strongly defended Seri Kembangan State Assemblyman Wong Siew Ki against widespread criticism over her proposal for a modern, closed pig farming system in Selangor, calling the backlash “uncalled for” and a threat to democratic principles.
In a statement issued yesterday (April 23), Ramkarpal, who is also Chairman of the DAP National Legal Bureau, described the calls for Wong to be suspended from the State Assembly for up to 12 months — and even demands that she leave the state — as unjustified and reflective of a poor understanding of the role of elected representatives.
“There was nothing wrong for Wong to have raised the matter as it is one in the public interest and such proposals ought to be welcomed and debated in the interests of suggesting possible alternatives to approaching the issue, instead of calling for her to be censured,” he said.
Ramkarpal stressed that Wong’s proposal should be debated rationally and maturely in the Selangor State Assembly, warning that reprimanding her would set a “dangerous precedent in silencing elected representatives, particularly on matters in the public interest, which is undoubtedly against democratic values and principles.”
He acknowledged the Sultan of Selangor’s earlier call to end pig farming in the state, citing environmental impact and the state’s demographic make-up, which he said is respected. However, Ramkarpal noted that Wong’s suggestion for a modern, closed system does not disrespect the royal directive.
“Wong’s proposal, however, does not in any way disrespect this but instead offers constructive alternative solutions to the issue which should not be dismissed outright,” he added.
Ramkarpal concluded that Wong was simply fulfilling her duties as a state assemblywoman.
“In the circumstances, I am of the view that Wong was merely carrying out her duties as a state assemblyman and condemning her for doing so is certainly unnecessary and regrettable,” he said.
The controversy erupted after Wong raised the proposal during a recent State Assembly sitting, arguing it could address environmental concerns through modern technology while upholding constitutional equality. It drew sharp criticism from various quarters, including PAS Youth, which called for her suspension, and others who told her to leave Selangor.
Ramkarpal’s statement comes amid ongoing public debate over the future of pig farming in the state following the Sultan’s directive issued in February 2026.
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