Malaysia Halal Foods - Malaysian Halal Certification

The Halal Stamp of Malaysia (see top right)

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia or JAKIM (Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia) introduced its new Halal Stamp in October 2003. The new stamp is the standard stamp used by all states in Malaysia in contrast to the ealier one where each state has its own stamp.

The original colour of the Halal Stamp is black and white. However, certificate holders can choose any colour they wish to suit their need. The code number printed within the circle (H-15 shown in sample) indicates the Malaysian State that issues the certification.

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Assurance of Halal by JAKIM

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How to obtain Malaysian Halal Certification

	Assurance of Halal by JAKIM
It is outlined in the booklet by JAKIM on General Guidelines On The Slaughtering Of Animals And The Preparation And Handling of Halal Food (2001) that the examiner will only confer halal status when he is fully confident and satisfied beyond any reasonable doubt on every aspects of the examination. The examination should not create or give rise to any question or doubt and the examination process shall cover all aspects of:
1.	preparation,	4.	handling,	7.	cleaning,
2.	slaughtering,	5.	storage,	8.	disinfection and
3.	processing,	6.	transportation,	9.	management practices.

How to obtain Malaysian Halal Certification

For Malaysian institutions and sites

Individuals cam apply for Halal Certification directly from the Division of Islamic Food & Consumption of JAKIM. Details are available from JAKIM's website www.islam.gov.my/english/

For Non- Malaysian institutions and sites

Jakim also conducts site inspections outside Malaysia for the purpose of accredition since there are imported products in the Malaysian market that carry the halal stamp. Such inspections are essentially for the benefits of Malaysian Muslims, in particular, as well as other Muslims who recognise JAKIM's responsibility. However, these inspections do not determine whether sites should cease to operate or otherwise. Should JAKIM find substantial evidence that a site is in breach of the Islamic rules, JAKIM may disallow sale of its product in Malaysia as halal.

•	The accredition process entails site inspection by competent Malaysian officials and the appointment of an Islamic Organisation that will be entrusted to supervise and monitor the halal status of the site concerned. The Islamic Organisation will be officially accredited by JAKIM and Halal Certificate for products to be exported to Malaysia will be issued by such approved organisation. For details visit www.halaljakim.gov.my.
•	Initially, the halal status conferred to an approved site or establishment or will be for a period of one year. During this period, the accredited Islamic Organisation will constantly monitor the site. To maintain its halal status, the establishment will be subject to inspection by competent Malaysian officials biennially.
•	It is obligatory for an accredited Islamic Organisation to monitor or supervise any site or establishment. Failure to carry out this responsibilty will result in annulment of its accredition and withdrawal of the halal certification awarded to the site.