Cabinet Already Decided Halal Certification Is Voluntary Says Jakim

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Jakim said having food and beverage operators possess Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) is just one of the promotional efforts by local authorities to increase the number of SPHM holders under their jurisdiction. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA: Application for halal certification in the country is voluntary in line with the Cabinet’s decision on the matter, says the Islamic development department (Jakim).
In a statement, Jakim director-general Sirajuddin Suhaimee said a Cabinet meeting on Sept 18 agreed to maintain a policy – that has been in place since 1974 – that halal certification should remain voluntary.
Sirajuddin said Jakim hopes local authorities will provide a “clear and comprehensive explanation” regarding mandatory halal certification to avoid any confusion among business owners and the public.
“There is no law that makes it compulsory for any party to apply for halal certification,” he said.
“Any requirement for food and beverage operators to possess Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) is just one of the promotional efforts by local authorities to increase the number of SPHM holders under their jurisdiction.”
Sirajuddin added that Jakim and state religious authorities actively encourage businesses to apply for the SPHM as it provides assurances about the quality of its products and adds value to businesses looking to expand their market.
On Thursday, Kelantan’s Islamic development, dakwah, information and regional relations committee chairman Asri Mat Daud said all food and beverage establishment owners in Kelantan will soon be required to possess halal certification as a condition for renewing their business licences.
Asri said the timing of enforcement across the state had not yet been decided; however, the Kota Bharu municipal council will be the first to enforce the requirement.
However, the state government later clarified that the ruling only applies to outlets serving Muslims. Non-Muslim outlets will only need halal certification if they wish to sell consumables to Muslim customers. - FMT

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