Regulations on Halal
Halal Certification, Regulation and Consumer Protection
The halal concept has expanded beyond its religious roots to become a widely accepted standard for business practice. These standards have gained acceptance among the business community, governmental organisations, and the general population, regardless of belief. This is because halal values encompass the entire ecosystem, covering all sectors, including specialty processed food, cosmetics and personal care, livestock, halal ingredients, pharmaceuticals, and services.
By definition, any declaration of halal means fulfilling standard requirements and ensuring the protection of consumers. The manipulation of the halal logo or the use of false halal descriptions to lure consumers into purchasing certain products is regarded as a serious offence. Since Muslim consumers are very cautious about what they consume, the halal logo on products is extremely important and serves as a key marketing symbol for Muslims.
Trade Descriptions (Definition of Halal) Order 2011
The Government, through the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, established the Trade Descriptions (Definition of Halal) Order 2011. Section 28 of the Act defines that any food that is manufactured, sold, or intended for consumption by Muslims must comply with Hukum Syarak (Islamic Law).
This is further supported by the Trade Description Act (TDA) 2011, which was approved by Parliament on 11 July 2011 and enforced from 1 January 2012. The TDA 2011 promotes good trade practices by prohibiting false trade descriptions and false or misleading statements, conduct, and practices related to the supply of goods and services.
To further strengthen the regulations on halal, Section 29 which is Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Halal) Order 2011 defines the competent authority in Malaysia. The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and the Islamic Religious Council in the respective states are the authorities responsible for certifying any food, goods, or services as halal in accordance with the Trade Description (Definition of Halal) Order 2011.
This is further supported by the Trade Description Act (TDA) 2011, which was approved by Parliament on 11 July 2011 and enforced from 1 January 2012. The TDA 2011 promotes good trade practices by prohibiting false trade descriptions and false or misleading statements, conduct, and practices related to the supply of goods and services.
To further strengthen the regulations on halal, Section 29 which is Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Halal) Order 2011 defines the competent authority in Malaysia. The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and the Islamic Religious Council in the respective states are the authorities responsible for certifying any food, goods, or services as halal in accordance with the Trade Description (Definition of Halal) Order 2011.
