JAKIM Considers Mandatory Halal Certification for All Restaurants

The Malaysian Islamic Development Department, also known as Jakim, is currently exploring the possibility of making halal certification a mandatory requirement for restaurants and food establishments that do not serve pork or alcohol. This move could have a substantial impact on the food industry in Malaysia, where halal certification is a significant factor for many consumers and business owners alike.

Jakim Certification

At present, obtaining Jakim certification is completely optional for restaurants and food businesses. According to Religious Affairs Minister Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, there are no laws that mandate restaurant operators or food companies to acquire halal certification. Although many businesses voluntarily apply for halal certification to attract Muslim customers, the proposed plan could make this certification a standard requirement for all food-related businesses.

During a recent press conference, Minister Datuk Mohd Na’im emphasized that making halal certification mandatory would require significant legal and regulatory changes. Various government agencies would need to collaborate to ensure smooth implementation and enforcement of this regulation. “Several acts or laws will need to be amended, and many agencies will need to be involved in enforcing this,” he stated.

This proposal highlights the Malaysian government’s intent to ensure that consumers, particularly Muslims, have greater transparency when it comes to the food they consume. If implemented, this move could also position Malaysia as a global leader in halal food regulation, further boosting the country’s reputation in the international halal market.

The Significance of Jakim Certification

For Malaysia’s Muslim consumers, Jakim certification is regarded as the ultimate assurance that the food they consume complies with Islamic dietary laws. The halal certification confirms that the food is not only free of prohibited substances such as pork and alcohol but also that it adheres to halal practices across the entire supply chain. This includes the sourcing of ingredients, processing methods, storage, and handling of food.

Without this certification, many Muslim consumers may be hesitant to dine at certain establishments or purchase certain food products. Businesses that have obtained Jakim certification are generally perceived as more trustworthy by these consumers. As a result, mandatory halal certification could significantly alter the business landscape in Malaysia, encouraging more restaurants and food companies to seek certification to maintain consumer trust.

This move to standardize halal certification reflects the growing demand for halal-compliant food, not only in Malaysia but across the world. According to recent data, the global halal food market is projected to reach $2.3 trillion by 2027. This growth is driven by an increasing demand from Muslim populations, both locally and internationally, who are looking for halal-certified products and services.

Increasing Consumer Awareness

The Malaysian government is also encouraging Muslim consumers to be more vigilant when it comes to verifying the halal status of the restaurants they visit. Minister Datuk Mohd Na’im urged the public to utilize platforms such as the Halal Malaysia Portal, which allows consumers to check the certification status of food businesses. This heightened awareness among consumers could lead to more pressure on businesses to seek Jakim certification, even before it becomes a legal requirement.

In recent months, there has been growing public concern about the halal status of certain popular restaurant chains in Malaysia. On September 4, Jakim confirmed that five well-known restaurant chains in the country—Johnny’s Restaurant, Black Canyon, Dolly Dim Sum, Mr. Dakgalbi, and Bungkus Kaw Kaw—do not possess official Malaysian halal certification. This revelation came after an inquiry was submitted through Jakim’s Public Complaint Management System.

In response, Jakim stated that the information was provided based on their internal system, the MYeHALAL system, which tracks the halal certification status of food establishments across Malaysia. The confirmation regarding these five restaurant chains sparked a renewed discussion among consumers about the importance of verifying halal certification, especially when dining out.

The Halal Malaysia Portal

The Halal Malaysia Portal has emerged as a vital resource for consumers who want to verify the halal status of restaurants and food chains. This platform provides up-to-date information about businesses that have obtained legitimate halal certification. For example, the portal recently revealed that the Ayam Penyet Best restaurant chain, while widely popular in Malaysia, only has four outlets that are certified with Jakim halal certification.

As the use of the Halal Malaysia Portal becomes more widespread, more consumers will likely take the initiative to check the halal status of the restaurants they visit. This growing demand for transparency could further incentivize businesses to seek halal certification, particularly if it becomes mandatory shortly.

The Process of Obtaining Jakim Certification

For restaurants and food businesses, obtaining Jakim certification involves several steps. The process begins with submitting a formal application to Jakim, after which the premises undergo a thorough inspection to ensure that they meet halal standards. This inspection covers various aspects of the business, from food preparation methods to the sourcing of ingredients.

Once the inspection is complete, the application is reviewed, and if all requirements are met, the halal certificate is granted. This certification is valid for a specific period and must be renewed periodically to ensure ongoing compliance with halal standards.

While some businesses may view this certification process as time-consuming or costly, many find that the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Jakim certification not only helps businesses attract Muslim consumers but also enhances their reputation as trustworthy and reliable establishments. Moreover, businesses with halal certification can capitalize on the growing demand for halal products, both locally and internationally.

Challenges for Businesses

If Jakim moves forward with the plan to make halal certification mandatory, it could present both challenges and opportunities for Malaysia’s food industry. Larger restaurant chains and food manufacturers may be better equipped to handle the administrative and financial burdens of obtaining certification. However, smaller businesses could face difficulties in navigating the certification process or meeting the requirements.

On the other hand, mandatory halal certification could open up new opportunities for businesses looking to expand their customer base. As halal-certified products and services become increasingly sought after, businesses that obtain certification could gain a competitive edge in the market. Moreover, with the global halal food industry poised for significant growth in the coming years, Malaysian businesses could benefit from positioning themselves as leaders in halal compliance and certification.

The Future of Halal Certification in Malaysia

The prospect of making halal certification mandatory for restaurants and food businesses is a significant development in Malaysia’s food industry. For consumers, this proposal offers the promise of greater assurance that the food they consume meets the highest halal standards. For businesses, it signals a potential shift in the regulatory landscape, one that may soon require them to obtain Jakim certification to remain competitive.

As the global demand for halal-certified products continues to rise, Malaysia’s role as a leader in halal certification could grow even stronger. Whether you’re a restaurant owner or a food industry professional, staying informed about these potential changes is crucial for ensuring compliance with Malaysia’s evolving halal regulations.

Jakim considers making halal certification mandatory, both businesses and consumers need to understand the implications. For businesses, obtaining certification may soon become not just a competitive advantage but a legal requirement. For consumers, the move offers greater transparency and confidence in the halal status of the food they consume.