Only SPHM Issued By JAKIM Recognised In Melaka - JAIM

MELAKA, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- The Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM) stressed that only the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is recognised for use in Melaka.

JAIM director Datuk Md Azhan Samat @ Limat, who is also the Melaka State Halal Certification Panel chairman, said they agreed with JAKIM's stance that the use of terms such as 'Muslim Choice' or similar labels and introduced by any other party, including Pasukan Pemantau Mesra Muslim (Muslim-Friendly Monitoring Team), was not a halal certification or marking that is recognised by the authorities.

"Such actions can mislead the people regarding the halal status of a product or premises and violate the provisions under the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Halal) Order 2011.

"In addition, any use of logos, symbols, terms, statements or phrases that imply halal and can be eaten by Muslims issued by any other party other than JAKIM or the State Islamic Religious Council (MAIN) or the State Islamic Religious Department (JAIN) are not valid and contravene regulations,” he said in a statement today.

He said the use of such logos could undermine the integrity of the national halal certification system, and mislead consumers, adding that JAIM will take appropriate actions against any party involved in such practices.

JAIM also advised the public to always be wary of fake halal logos or certificates issued by unauthorised parties and to check the official Malaysian halal logo issued by JAKIM or any foreign halal logo recognised by the department for every product.

Md Azhan said checks could be made via JAKIM's official website at https://myehalal.halal.gov.my/portal-halal, and urged the public to report to JAIM if they have any doubts regarding the status of any product or eatery.

He said consumers’ concern with the halal status not only protects individuals and their families from elements of syubhah (prohibited), but also contributes to the development of a halal industry that is of high integrity in Melaka.

-- BERNAMA