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Cover Story
@ Halal | MAY-JUNE . 2023
ated upgrading our system . The software we use assists consumers in verifying the validity of halal products , such as Smart Halal and Verify Halal . In the future , we may even have technology that enables traceability throughout the supply chain , enhancing transparency ,” Zamri elaborated .
He shared that JAKIM would implement several digitalisation programmes and upgrade their MYeHALAL system . The department also aims to introduce My Ingredient , a new system that will serve as a platform for industry players to input all the halal-certified ingredients . This initiative will streamline and save time , serving as a centralised database for halal certification applicants .
INSTILLING CONTINUED TRUST AND CONFIDENCE
“ To ensure the continued trust in Malaysia ’ s halal certification , awareness is paramount . That ’ s why we have implemented numerous halal programmes to ensure that awareness among the public remains high .
“ We have various programmes such as the Halal Awareness Programme , roundtable discussions , engagements with NGOs , agencies , and more . This initiative aims to fortify the system . When our system is robust , and awareness is high , it makes the industry more alert .
“ This wave of awareness must be consistently present , not seasonal , to ensure the industry is sensitive and compliant to our halal guidelines and standards . Our international involvement , such as with Fatwa academies and other international bodies , allows us to demonstrate our leadership in halal issues .”
Zamri emphasised that many of the standards established by JAKIM were accepted and recognised by The Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries ( SMIIC ) and have subsequently been implemented by other countries . Therefore , Malaysia must strengthen its position in this area .
He clarified that JAKIM ’ s role went beyond mere development and required solid actions .
“ For example , we already have transportation , warehousing , and retailing initiatives regarding the logistics scheme . However , we have only implemented two - transportation and warehousing .
“ There have been some challenges regarding retailing ; plans are underway to address them and ensure its implementation soon .
“ Therefore , in Malaysia , we must ensure that our implementation can become a benchmark for other countries . When we establish standards and manuals and successfully implement them , it will undoubtedly instil confidence domestically and internationally ,” he highlighted .
Zamri further mentioned that JAKIM was actively working on enhancing its law enforcement initiatives and forging stronger partnerships with agencies such as Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services ( MAQIS ) and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living ( KPDN ) to effectively address critical halal-related concerns , including issues like meat cartels .
“ By successfully addressing these challenges , we will foster increased confidence and trust among the public ,” he added .
He shared that the department was committed to maintaining an open and responsive approach towards consumer complaints and similar matters . Recognising the significant influence of social media , JAKIM understands the need to proactively manage any potential negative implications when an issue goes viral .
Regardless of validity , the agency remains dedicated to addressing concerns promptly and appropriately . To this end , following
Therefore , in Malaysia , we must ensure that our implementation can become a benchmark for other countries . When we establish standards and manuals and successfully implement them , it will undoubtedly instil confidence domestically and internationally ,” he highlighted .” – Mohamad Zamri Mohamed Shapik
established procedures , swift action will be taken to ensure a response within four hours .
KEEPING UP WITH THE ADVANCEMENT OF TECHNOLOGY
Zamri explained that in the past , when industries met the criteria for halal certification , they would personally visit JAKIM to collect the certificate . For other States , the certificates would be sent by mail , which incurred additional expenses .
However , with the implementation of the Electronic Certification System , or eCERT , once the halal certification manual determines that an entity is halal and meets the requirements for certification , the industry will receive a notification . They will then have the convenience of printing the certificate themselves , simplifying the process significantly .
He further highlighted that technology in halal certification was not only about the certification process itself but also about the technology in the respective industries , which is evolving rapidly .
“ It includes technology in food production , pharmaceuticals , medical devices , etc . This situation serves as a challenge to the halal certification process . Thus , we closely collaborate with JAKIM ’ s research division and the Fatwa Committee to issue relevant Fatwas .”
He reiterated that the rapid technological advancements within various industries posed a challenge , mainly when the issue involved critical components derived from porcine sources , blood , carcasses , and similar substances .
In Islamic jurisprudence , the principle of istihlal comes into play , where something considered initially haram ( forbidden ) may transform into a new permissible entity . However , Zamri said it was important to note that the Shafi ’ i school of thought adopts a more cautious approach , limiting the extent of permissibility for istihlal .
Therefore , addressing these matters related to halal requires extensive scientific research and deliberation by the appropriate Fatwa authorities . –