In an ambitious move, the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) has been challenged to cut its Halal CERT approval process to 15 days. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also chairs the Malaysian Halal Council, posed this challenge. His confidence in Jakim’s ability to meet this goal stems from their recent advancements and track record in the certification process.
Jakim, already known for its efficiency, previously reduced the approval time to 23 days, a significant improvement from the earlier lengthy timelines. The new target, however, pushes the boundaries further. To assist in achieving this ambitious goal, Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) will collaborate with Jakim, providing support without requiring additional budget or manpower.
Innovative Solutions with AI for Halal CERT
One of the pivotal advancements driving this effort is the development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system by Jakim. This AI system aims to streamline the certification process by efficiently analyzing the numerous ingredients and compliance factors involved in halal certification (The Star) (Malay Mail ). The integration of AI technology is expected to revolutionize the approval process, reducing the manual workload and accelerating approvals.
Jakim’s Halal Management Division director, Mohamad Zamri Mohamed Shapik, emphasized that the AI system would particularly help in managing complex applications, such as those from hotels with extensive menus and thousands of ingredients. This technological upgrade is anticipated to significantly cut down the time required for processing applications, making the 15-day target achievable.
A Broader Vision for the Halal CERT Industry
Dr. Ahmad Zahid highlighted that the potential of Malaysia’s halal industry extends far beyond food and beverages. The sector encompasses various products and services, including banking, insurance, and raw materials, all adhering to halal standards. This broader approach ensures that products are clean, safe, and free from prohibited substances, benefiting both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers alike.
During the recent launch of the Halal on Track (HoT) program at the Persada International Convention Centre, Zahid underscored the program’s goal to streamline Malaysian halal certification for entrepreneurs. This platform brings together various certification stakeholders, providing comprehensive services under one roof to facilitate easier access for businesses seeking halal certification.
Economic Impact and Global Reach
Malaysia’s commitment to enhancing its halal certification process is part of a larger strategy to bolster its position in the global halal market. The country’s halal exports reached nearly RM60 billion in 2023, with aspirations to increase this figure to RM300 billion by 2030, thereby contributing 11% to the national economy.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has also emphasized the government’s commitment to digitalizing the certification process, aiming to further reduce processing times from 51 to 30 days. This digital transformation is expected to boost exports and attract more companies to seek halal certification.
The Malaysian government’s proactive steps, including the integration of AI and the collaboration with Mara, are poised to significantly enhance the efficiency of the Halal CERT approval process. With these innovations, Malaysia aims to not only meet the ambitious 15-day approval target but also solidify its leadership in the global halal industry. This comprehensive approach ensures that Malaysia remains at the forefront of providing high-quality, halal-certified products and services, benefiting a wide range of consumers worldwide.
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