Jakim clarifies that halal certification is not related to governance issues

In the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia continues its commitment to upholding the highest standards in halal certification and promoting ethical governance. The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), under the Madani government, is at the forefront of these efforts.

Jakim, through its director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, has clarified that the department's focus remains on maintaining the integrity of halal certification and strengthening its role in dakwah (Islamic outreach) and education. The halal certification process, an official mechanism, serves to safeguard consumer confidence and ensure compliance with established standards and syariah requirements across various sectors.

Industries granted halal certification have fulfilled all criteria, requirements, and standards in line with halal guidelines and syariah principles. This ensures that the Muslim community is protected from confusion, market manipulation, and exploitation, as without valid halal certification, the risks are significant.

In the context of national governance, the responsibility to combat corruption, uphold integrity, and ensure justice rests with all departments and ministries, as well as enforcement bodies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the Royal Malaysia Police, and the judiciary. Jakim also plays a role in promoting ethical governance and integrity based on Islamic principles, advising the national government on Islamic affairs to help prevent corruption and abuse of power within Malaysia.

Sirajuddin stressed the need to distinguish between the broader concept of halal in Islam and the specific process of halal certification. Islam, as conveyed through the Quran and Sunnah, strictly prohibits corruption, abuse of power, and the betrayal of trust. These efforts reflect a continuous commitment to righteousness, cleanliness, justice, and integrity in line with syariah principles and the nation's aspirations.

The Madani government, through Jakim, will continue to strengthen strategic cooperation with all stakeholders to uphold Malaysia's halal certification as an international benchmark and advance Islamic education, community development, dakwah, and family institutions. These efforts align with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directive for all departments to combat corruption, strengthen national integrity, and enhance transparent and trustworthy governance.

Jakim conveys moral and syariah messages through various platforms, including Friday sermons, community development programs, awareness campaigns, and digital media. These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to fostering a society that adheres to the principles of Islam and upholds the highest standards of integrity and transparency.