The pursuit of halal certification in the nation is optional, as stated by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim), following the Cabinet’s decision on the subject.
In a declaration, Jakim’s director-general Sirajuddin Suhaimee mentioned that a Cabinet session on September 18 resolved to uphold a policy – established in 1974 – which asserts that halal certification should be voluntary.
Sirajuddin expressed that Jakim aspires for local authorities to offer a “lucid and thorough clarification” regarding the necessity of mandatory halal certification to prevent misunderstandings among business operators and the community.
“There exists no legislation that mandates any entity to seek halal certification,” he affirmed.
“Any stipulation for food and beverage providers to obtain Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) is merely one of the promotional measures by local authorities aimed at boosting the number of SPHM certificate holders within their areas.”
Sirajuddin further remarked that Jakim and state religious bodies actively promote the application for SPHM, as it ensures product quality and enhances the value for businesses aiming to broaden their market reach.
