Malaysia can withdraw JAKIM recognition from US halal certification bodies if they violate Malaysian Syariah procedures and halal standards, says minister.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia can revoke JAKIM recognition of two United States halal certification bodies if they breach the country’s halal standards or protocols.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said under Article 2.5 of the Reciprocal Trade Agreement with the US, any foreign halal certification body is fully subject to Malaysian Syariah procedures and halal standards.
He added that the halal logo issued to recognised certification bodies is for administrative purposes to facilitate approvals.
All auditing, monitoring and final verification remain fully under JAKIM’s control.
“During audits conducted by JAKIM, if any violations are found, the department can withdraw recognition from the certified body,” he said during the winding up of the debate on the Supply Bill (Budget) 2026 at Parliament’s committee stage.
Regarding Muslim Friendly Watch, Mohd Na’im said the body had been ordered to immediately cease using any halal logo or statements related to ‘Muslim Choice’ that could mislead the public.
MFW has officially decided to dissolve itself under the Societies Act 1966 following public attention on the issue. – Bernama
