JAKIM considers mandatory halal certification for non-pork, non-alcohol restaurants
The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) is considering a significant shift in its halal certification policy, with plans to potentially make halal certification mandatory for restaurants and food establishments that do not serve pork or alcohol.
Currently, obtaining halal certification is voluntary for food business operators, as highlighted by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr. Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, at the International Conference on Family Law 2024.
“There are no existing laws that require restaurants or food companies to secure halal certification,” Na’im said during a press conference, as reported by Free Malaysia Today. However, he noted that to enforce mandatory halal certification, several laws and Acts would need to be amended. This change would also require collaboration with various agencies to ensure smooth enforcement and compliance across the industry.
The move is seen as a way to standardize food practices and provide clearer assurances to Muslim consumers. Na’im also emphasized the importance of consumer awareness, encouraging Muslims to use platforms such as JAKIM's Halal Malaysia Portal to verify the halal status of restaurants. He noted that increased consumer scrutiny could motivate more businesses to seek halal certification, even before any legal changes are made.
This discussion comes in the wake of recent revelations by JAKIM that several popular food and beverage outlets frequented by Muslims, such as Johnny’s, Black Canyon, Dolly Dim Sum, Mr. Dakgalbi, Bungkus Kaw Kaw, and Ayam Penyet Best (with the exception of four outlets), are not halal-certified, despite not serving pork or alcohol.
For businesses seeking halal certification, the process involves submitting an application to JAKIM, followed by an inspection of the premises before certification can be approved.
If mandatory halal certification is implemented, it would mark a significant step towards ensuring the credibility and transparency of food services in Malaysia, especially for Muslim consumers who rely on such certification for their dietary needs.
