Jakim’s announcement that six popular food and beverage outlets were not halal-certified caused confusion among Muslims who regularly visited these establishments.
PETALING JAYA: The Islamic development department (Jakim) has been urged to exercise caution when declaring the halal certification status of companies or products to avoid confusion that could harm businesses.
Deputy secretary-general of the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) Nur Asyikin Aminuddin said Jakim must ensure that its statements are accurate and based on verified information.
“Jakim needs to provide clearer explanations about the halal certification status to prevent Muslims from doubting the food they consume or the products they use,” she told FMT.
Earlier this month, Jakim revealed that six popular food and beverage outlets regularly patronised by Muslims were not halal-certified.
It listed Johnny’s, Black Canyon, Dolly Dim Sum, Mr Dakgalbi, Bungkus Kaw Kaw, and Ayam Penyet Best (except for four outlets) as not having halal certificates.
Dolly Dim Sum said its central kitchen received halal certification as of Aug 1 and was working on getting all outlets halal certified.
Johnny’s Restaurants and Black Canyon said their raw ingredients were sourced from Jakim-recognised halal suppliers.
Jakim had previously come under scrutiny when it suspended Cadbury’s halal certification in 2014 over alleged porcine DNA in its chocolate products, only to later reverse the decision after further investigation found no such traces.
The incident raised concerns within the business community about the reliability of Jakim’s inspection system and database, as well as the accuracy and frequency of its updates.
To resolve these issues, Norsyahrin Hamidon, president of the Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia, suggested adopting artificial Intelligence and blockchain technology in all matters related to halal certification.
“With the integration of technology, improved communication, and ongoing support, (the chamber) is confident that the halal certification process will become more efficient, transparent, and business-friendly, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Malaysia’s halal industry,” he said.
Norsyahrin also hoped for better coordination between Jakim and other state Islamic departments to ensure consistency in regulations.
Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) president Jawahar Ali agreed that there was a need for improvements despite having no issues dealing with Jakim.
“Jakim is very proactive in ensuring the aspects of halal certification, but I agree that there is room for improvement,” he said.
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