How to Obtain a Halal Certificate in Malaysia: Costs, Process, and Timeframe

Getting a Halal certificate in Malaysia is crucial for businesses that want to cater to the Muslim market, both locally and internationally. The demand for Halal-certified products and services has been growing rapidly, driven by the increasing global Muslim population and rising consumer awareness of the importance of Halal certification. For businesses looking to tap into this lucrative market, securing a Halal certification from Malaysia’s Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM) is a critical step.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how much it costs, the process involved, and how long it takes to obtain a Halal certificate in Malaysia.

Why Is Halal Certification Important?

Halal certification ensures that products and services comply with Islamic dietary laws and ethical guidelines. This certification is particularly important for businesses in sectors like food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and more. It guarantees that products are free from ingredients or processes prohibited by Islamic law, making them suitable for Muslim consumers.

Malaysia, as a leader in the global Halal market, has a rigorous and internationally recognized Halal certification system administered by JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia). Having a JAKIM-certified product or service provides credibility and opens doors to both local and international markets, especially in countries with significant Muslim populations.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Halal Certificate in Malaysia?

The cost of obtaining a Halal certificate in Malaysia varies depending on several factors such as the type of business, the scope of the certification, and the complexity of the products or services offered. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

1. Application Fee: Businesses must first pay a non-refundable application fee to begin the process. This fee typically ranges from RM 100 to RM 200 depending on the size and type of business.
2. Audit Fees: Once the application is submitted, JAKIM or an approved Halal certification body will conduct an audit of the business premises, processes, and supply chain. The audit fee may range from RM 400 to RM 700, depending on the complexity of the inspection.
3. Annual Certification Fee: Once the Halal certificate is issued, businesses must pay an annual fee to maintain their certification. This fee can vary based on the size of the business:
   • Small businesses: Around RM 1000 to RM 2000 annually.
   • Medium and large enterprises: Costs may increase to around RM 3000 to RM 5000 annually, depending on the number of products and services certified.
4. Additional Fees: Depending on the business’s industry and scale, additional costs may be incurred, such as testing or inspection fees for food laboratories, ingredient testing, or other compliance-related costs. These can range from RM 500 to RM 1500, depending on the complexity of the products being certified.

Total estimated costs for Halal certification in Malaysia can range between RM 1500 and RM 10,000, depending on the business type and the extent of certification required. Larger companies with a broader product range may incur higher fees, while smaller businesses may have lower overall costs.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Halal Certificate in Malaysia?

The timeframe for obtaining a Halal certificate in Malaysia depends on several factors, including the completeness of the application, the complexity of the audit, and the specific industry involved. Here is a general overview of the time it takes to complete the process:

1. Application Submission: The first step is applying through the JAKIM Halal Portal (MyHALAL) or an approved Halal certification body. This can be done online. Once the application is submitted, it typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for initial review and acknowledgment.
2. Document Verification: After submission, JAKIM will verify the documents provided by the business, including ingredient lists, product details, and production processes. This step may take around 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity and size of the business.
3. Audit and Inspection: The Halal audit is the most crucial part of the certification process. Inspectors will visit the business premises to ensure that all processes, raw materials, and supply chains meet Halal standards. This audit process may take 2 to 4 weeks to complete.
4. Certification Decision: Once the audit is completed, the auditors will submit their findings to JAKIM or the certifying body for approval. The final certification decision is typically made within 4 to 6 weeks after the audit, provided there are no issues requiring further clarification.
5. Total Time: From start to finish, the process of obtaining a Halal certificate in Malaysia generally takes around 3 to 6 months. However, businesses with more complex supply chains or products may experience longer timeframes, especially if additional audits or documentation are required.

Steps to Obtain a Halal Certificate in Malaysia

The process of obtaining a Halal certificate in Malaysia involves several key steps:

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure that your business qualifies for Halal certification by reviewing the guidelines outlined by JAKIM. This typically involves confirming that your business adheres to Islamic principles in product manufacturing, sourcing, processing, and handling.
2. Application Submission: Submit your application through the MyHALAL Portal or the relevant Halal certification body. Ensure all required documents are provided, including product specifications, ingredient lists, and supply chain details.
3. Audit and Inspection: Once your application is accepted, prepare for a thorough audit of your premises, production processes, and supply chain to ensure compliance with Halal standards. Auditors will assess every stage of the production and handling process to confirm that Islamic principles are followed.
4. Certification Approval: After a successful audit, your application will undergo review by JAKIM, and if all criteria are met, you will receive your Halal certificate. This certificate must be renewed annually, requiring continued compliance with Halal standards.

Benefits of Halal Certification for Businesses in Malaysia

Obtaining a Halal certification in Malaysia offers numerous advantages for businesses, particularly those looking to expand their market reach:

1. Access to Global Markets: With the global Halal economy projected to reach USD 5 trillion by 2030, obtaining a Halal certificate allows businesses to tap into a rapidly growing consumer base across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
2. Increased Credibility: Halal certification assures consumers that the products meet stringent ethical and religious standards. This boosts brand credibility and consumer trust, particularly among Muslim consumers.
3. Expanded Market Reach: Malaysia’s Halal certification is widely recognized globally, opening doors for businesses to export their products to Muslim-majority countries and beyond.
4. Boost in Sales: Products with a Halal certification often enjoy increased demand, as they appeal not only to Muslim consumers but also to those seeking high-quality, ethical, and safe products.
5. Competitive Advantage: Having a JAKIM-certified product gives businesses an edge over competitors, especially in regions where Halal certification is a key factor in purchasing decisions.

Obtaining a Halal certificate in Malaysia is a multi-step process that requires businesses to adhere to strict Islamic guidelines and ensure their entire supply chain complies with Halal principles. While the cost and timeframe for certification vary, the benefits far outweigh the investment, giving businesses access to a thriving global market.

For businesses looking to expand their presence in the global Halal economy, securing a Halal certification is a crucial step in building consumer trust, credibility, and long-term success.