ALL FOREIGN HALAL CERTIFICATION BODIES SUBJECT TO MALAYSIA’S STANDARDS - MOHD NA’IM

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 31 (Bernama) -- All foreign halal certification bodies, including those from the United States (US), are fully subject to the safety procedures, Syariah aspects, audit requirements, hygiene standards, and certification systems under the Malaysian Halal Certification System, says Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.

He said that foreign halal certification bodies wishing to maintain recognition by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) must fully comply with all requirements set by Malaysia without exception.

Mohd Na’im said Article 2.5 of the Malaysia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) only provides for the use of halal logos from certification bodies recognised by JAKIM for administrative purposes and to streamline the approval process, while auditing, monitoring, and final verification remain under the agency’s control.

“Under Article 2.6, abattoirs producing meat and poultry products for export to Malaysia will receive halal approval only after undergoing an audit in accordance with the Malaysian Standard and the Malaysian Protocol for Halal Meat & Poultry Production.

“The audit must be conducted in the presence of at least two Syariah officers from a recognised halal certification body, and the audit report will then be endorsed by a committee appointed by JAKIM,” he said in a statement today.

Mohd Na’im stressed that Malaysia, through JAKIM, would never compromise on its halal standards in concluding the negotiations, and the recognition of US halal certificates does not imply any relaxation of Malaysia’s halal requirements.

“On the contrary, it merely facilitates administrative efficiency to strengthen bilateral trade relations. All imported products remain subject to JAKIM’s audit, regular monitoring, and the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, to ensure the integrity and transparency of Malaysia’s halal system,” he said.

Mohd Na’im said allegations claiming Malaysia had compromised its halal standards as part of the agreement were false and could undermine the reputation and integrity of the internationally recognised Malaysian Halal Certification System.

He added that JAKIM continues to ensure that Malaysian halal certification standards remain robust, and recognition of any foreign certification body is granted only after a comprehensive audit confirming full compliance with Malaysian Halal Standards.

“All international agreements signed by Malaysia are subject to the existing domestic regulations. Any improvements made are solely to expedite administrative processes without affecting the principles or strictness of our halal standards.

“In line with the dualist system, Malaysia’s commitments under international agreements take effect only after being incorporated into domestic law. This approach ensures smooth trade operations without compromising Syariah principles and national halal standards,” he said.

-- BERNAMA