PUTRAJAYA: The application for halal certification in Malaysia remains voluntary, with no law mandating any party to apply for it, says Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee.
The Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (Jakim) director-general said that the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) was open to any party willing to comply with all applicable standards, requirements, and laws.
"It adds value to certificate holders by demonstrating a high level of commitment to consistently adhering to halal certification standards and requirements," he said in a statement Sunday (Dec 29).
Commenting on the move by a local authority to require food and beverage operators to hold SPHM certification before renewing their business licences, Sirajuddin described it as the local authority's initiative to increase the number of SPHM holders under its administration.
However, he urged the local authority to provide clear and comprehensive explanations to prevent confusion among operators and the public.
Commenting further, Sirajuddin noted that Jakim, alongside state religious authorities, actively encouraged operators to apply for SPHM while fostering strategic collaboration with various guiding agencies at both federal and state levels.
"This is because being an SPHM holder guarantees the quality of products or services and adds value to businesses by broadening market opportunities," he added. - Bernama
