Halal certificate issuance in Malaysia started as early as 1965 by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS). The Halal Management Division is one of JAKIM’s divisions responsible for conducting halal certification in Malaysia together with the states’ Islamic Religious Departments.
At that time, it was responsible as one of the bodies that regulates halal product certification alongside the State Department of Islamic Religion (JAIN) which also implements halal certification with their respective logos.
In 1994, halal verification was given in the form of a verification certificate with the BAHEIS halal logo. In November 2002, the Islamic Food and Consumer Goods Research Division, JAKIM was established and began operating on 16 January 2003 as a halal certification body with the aim of coordinating, issuing and monitoring Halal Certification Certificates and enforcing all halal-related regulations in Malaysia.
Starting from there, the Government has decided that all halal verification matters are fully implemented by JAKIM through the Islamic Food and Consumer Goods Research Division with the use of the new halal logo. On November 1, 2005, this section was renamed the Halal Hub Section.
The passage of time has seen various changes occur where the issue of halal certification is handed over to be handled by Halal Industry Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (HDC) in 2008. The matter of halal certification was then returned to JAKIM on 1 August 2009.
On 3 December 2018, history once again recorded a major change when the Halal Hub Division was expanded into two (2) main divisions, namely the Malaysian Halal Council Secretariat (MHM) and the Halal Management Division (BPH). The Halal Management Division will manage halal certification operations covering the process of product and premise certification application document inspection, product and premise auditing, halal certificate issuance, overseas slaughterhouse verification, halal monitoring and enforcement and halal analysis center.
As the authority responsible for matters related to Islam in this country, JAKIM through the Halal Management Division, is the main agency that manages the certification and enforcement of halal status.
In this context, JAKIM has outlined a vision to become an authoritative and recognized halal certification service center at the national and international level.
Halal Certification Authority
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia, often known as JAKIM (Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia), is responsible for issuing Halal certifications in Malaysia. The general management and oversight of halal certification in the nation is the responsibility of JAKIM.
JAKIM is recognised as the primary halal certification agency in Malaysia and is in charge of making sure that foods, drinks, medications, cosmetics, and other consumer goods adhere to the halal standards as prescribed by Islamic law. For the purpose of regulating and certifying halal goods and services, they collaborate closely with businesses, organizations, and relevant governmental bodies.
In addition to JAKIM, numerous additional state Islamic religious authorities in Malaysia have halal certification departments of their own. These councils, including the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) and the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP), are able to grant halal certifications inside of their respective states. But the certificate copy is processed by JAKIM in Putrajaya.
It’s important to note that Malaysia has a thorough halal certification system, and that goods and services with the halal label given by the recognised bodies are widely acknowledged both domestically and globally.
Halal Certification Bodies
JAKIM is the only halal certification body in Malaysia that has the right to issue halal certificates.
Malaysia Halal Certification References
The following are some references related to Malaysia’s halal certification:
- Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM): JAKIM is the main authority responsible for halal certification in Malaysia. Their website (http://www.halal.gov.my/) provides comprehensive information on halal certification procedures, requirements, and guidelines.
- Malaysia Halal Certification Portal: The Malaysia Halal Certification Portal (https://www.halal.gov.my/ehalal/) is an online platform that provides information and services related to halal certification in Malaysia. It includes guidelines, application forms, and a database of certified halal products and establishments.
- Malaysian Standard MS 1500:2019: This is the Malaysian standard for halal food and halal food products. It outlines the requirements and procedures for halal certification, including criteria for ingredients, processing, and handling.
- Manual Prosedur Permohonan Halal Malaysia (domestik) 2020
- Malaysia Halal Management System (MHMS 2020)
Halal Certification Logo
The Malaysia Halal Certification logo is a symbol that indicates that a product, service, or establishment has been certified as halal by an authorized halal certification body in Malaysia. The logo consists of a round green emblem with a crescent moon and a five-pointed star in the center. The words “Halal Malaysia” are written in both English and Jawi (Arabic script) around the emblem.
The logo is used to assure consumers that the product or service meets the halal standards set by the certifying authority. It is a recognizable and trusted symbol for Muslim consumers in Malaysia and around the world.
Halal Certification Requirements & Criteria
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) has established specific requirements for halal certification in Malaysia. While these requirements may vary depending on the type of product or service being certified, here are some general guidelines:
Malaysia’s JAKIM Halal Certification Requirements
- Halal Ingredients
The ingredients used in the product must be halal, meaning they are permissible according to Islamic dietary laws. Any ingredients derived from animals must come from animals slaughtered in accordance with Islamic principles. Copy of halal certificate for each ingredients used is a must for Halal Application.
- Halal Processing
The entire production process, including sourcing, handling, storage, transportation, and manufacturing, must comply with halal requirements. This includes ensuring there is no cross-contamination with non-halal products during production.
- Halal Handling and Storage
The storage and handling of halal products must be separate from non-halal products to prevent contamination. Facilities must have proper storage and handling procedures in place to maintain the integrity of halal products.
- Halal Certification Training
The personnel involved in the production and handling of halal products must undergo training on halal principles and requirements. They should have a good understanding of halal standards and be able to implement them effectively.
- Halal Monitoring and Auditing
Regular monitoring and auditing of the production process and facilities should be conducted to ensure compliance with halal standards. This may include periodic inspections, testing, and verification of ingredients and processes.
- Halal Documentation
Proper documentation of all processes, ingredients, and certifications must be maintained. This includes records of suppliers, ingredients, production methods, and any halal certifications obtained.
It’s important to note that these requirements are a general overview, and the specific criteria may vary depending on the nature of the product or service being certified.
Halal Certification Fees
The fees for JAKIM Halal certification in Malaysia can vary depending on several factors, including the type of product or service, the complexity of the certification process, and the size of the business. The fees are typically determined by JAKIM and are subject to change. It is recommended to directly refer MPPHM 2020 Fees guidelines for the most up-to-date information on certification fees.
In addition to the initial certification fees, there may be additional charges for services such as renewal of certification, surveillance audits, and any additional testing or inspections that may be required.
It’s worth noting that apart from JAKIM, individual state-level Islamic religious councils in Malaysia may also have their own halal certification units and fee structures. These councils, such as the Islamic Religious Council of Selangor (MAIS) and the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP), may have their own fee schedules for halal certification within their respective state.
Halal Certification Process
The JAKIM halal certificate process in Malaysia typically involves several steps. Here is a general overview of the process:
- Application: The first step is to submit an application for halal certification to JAKIM or the relevant state-level Islamic religious council. The application form can usually be obtained from the respective authority’s website or office.
- Documentation Submission: Along with the application, you will be required to submit supporting documents, which may include information about the company, product formulations, ingredient specifications, production processes, and any existing certifications.
- Preliminary Evaluation: Once the application and documents are submitted, JAKIM or the certification body will conduct a preliminary evaluation to determine the completeness of the application and documents. They may request additional information or clarification if needed.
- On-site Audit: After the preliminary evaluation, an on-site audit will be scheduled. During the audit, the certification body’s representatives will visit the premises where the product is manufactured or handled. They will assess the production processes, ingredient sourcing, handling practices, storage facilities, and other relevant aspects to ensure compliance with halal requirements.
- Evaluation and Decision: Based on the findings from the on-site audit and the review of the documentation, the certification body will evaluate the application. If all requirements are met, a decision will be made regarding the issuance of the halal certification.
- Issuance of Halal Certificate: If the application is approved, the certification body will issue a halal certificate stating that the product or service has been certified as halal. The certificate will typically include information such as the name of the company, certification number, validity period, and any specific conditions or restrictions.
- Monitoring and Renewal: After receiving the halal certification, the certified entity is subject to periodic monitoring and audits by the certification body to ensure ongoing compliance with halal standards. The certification will need to be renewed at the end of its validity period, typically through a renewal application and process.
It’s important to note that the specific details and steps involved in the JAKIM halal certification process may vary depending on the nature of the product or service being certified. It is advisable to directly contact JAKIM or the relevant halal certification body for comprehensive guidance and clarification on the certification process or you may also get help from reliable and competent Halal consultant or coach.
Halal Certificate Application
To apply for Halal certification in Malaysia, you will need to follow these general steps:
Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your application. These typically include:
- Company registration documents
- Product information and formulation
- Ingredient specifications and certificates
- Process flowcharts and production methods
- Manufacturing facility layout and floor plans
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Quality control and assurance measures
- Any existing certifications or audit reports
Fill out Application Form: Register for MyeHalal account and fill up all the required fields.
Submit Application and Documents: Submit your completed application form along with the supporting documents to the certification body. Ensure that all documents are complete and up-to-date.
Application Review: The certification body will review your application and supporting documents. They may request additional information or clarification if necessary.
On-site Audit: Once the initial review is complete, an on-site audit will be scheduled. The audit team will visit your premises to assess your production processes, ingredient sourcing, handling practices, and storage facilities.
Evaluation and Decision: Based on the audit findings and document review, the certification body will evaluate your application. If your business meets the Halal certification criteria, a decision will be made regarding the issuance of the certification.
Certification Issuance: If your application is approved, the certification body will issue a Halal certificate. The certificate will include information such as your company name, certification number, validity period, and any specific conditions or restrictions.
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