KUALA TERENGGANU, Nov 5 — The Terengganu state government has clarified that the issue of halal certification extends beyond religious rulings, as it also encompasses aspects of confidence, hygiene, safety, and product integrity.
The clarification came following public confusion over the use of the term ‘Muslim Choice’ by an organisation alleged to have granted recognition to certain premises and products without official approval.
State Committee Chairman for Entrepreneurship, Human Resources and Consumer Affairs, Datuk Ariffin Deraman, said the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) had confirmed that the use of the term ‘Muslim Choice’ by Muslim Friendly Watch (MFW) does not constitute an officially recognised halal certification by JAKIM or any state religious authority.
He explained that under the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Halal) Order 2011, only JAKIM and the State Islamic Religious Councils or Departments (MAIN/JAIN) are legally authorised to issue the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) and permit the use of the official ‘Halal Malaysia’ logo.
“The use of any symbols, terms, or expressions implying halal status, other than those approved by the authorities, can mislead Muslim consumers and undermine the integrity of the national halal certification system,” he said in a statement today.
Ariffin advised Muslim consumers to rely solely on officially recognised halal certification systems to ensure that products and food premises truly comply with Islamic law and established standards.
“While initiatives such as ‘Muslim Choice’ may serve as efforts to promote cleanliness and Muslim-friendly awareness, they cannot replace or be considered equivalent to official halal certification,” he stressed.
He also encouraged consumers to verify halal status through the Verify Halal mobile application or the official Halal Malaysia portal, and urged entrepreneurs to apply for JAKIM halal certification to strengthen product credibility and consumer trust.
“The state government, through its relevant agencies, will continue to assist and guide local entrepreneurs in obtaining halal certification. This process not only fulfils religious requirements but also enhances market competitiveness and opens wider opportunities at both domestic and international levels,” Ariffin added.