SHAH ALAM: Non-Muslim restaurant and food and beverage companies are not mandated to apply for halal certification, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
“Non-Muslim F&B operators also request halal certificates," said Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Malaysian Halal Council chairman.
However, currently, there is no such requirement imposed by the government.
"There is no such decision by the cabinet. That is why the Prime Minister has instructed the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) to explain the current status, proposals, and studies on the halal issue on Wednesday," he said.
He added one will not lose their religious values by respecting other religions, emphasising that Malaysia must uphold its multiculturalism.
"In order for my religion to be respected, we must respect other religions too," he said.
Zahid said this during his speech at the 78th MIC Annual General Assembly on Sunday (Sept 15).
On Sept 3, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar mentioned that several laws would need to be amended to enforce mandatory halal certification and various agencies would need to be involved to ensure compliance.
Presently, halal certification is optional for food business operators.
