UMHV Expresses Concerns Over Compulsory Halal Certification for All Restaurants Nationwide
By Subaashinee Kupusamy,
2 OCTOBER: Ms Usha Muthusamy, the vice secretary of the United Malaysian Hindu Voice (UMHV) has released a press statement regarding the recent proposal to mandate halal certification for all eateries across Malaysia.
The press statement was released on September 29, 2024.
In the press release mentioned, “We extend our sincere appreciation to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi and the cabinet for their thoughtful deliberation regarding halal certification for Malaysia’s eateries, as announced at the Global Halal Summit 2024. The decision to maintain halal certification as an optional process demonstrates the government’s commitment to balancing various stakeholder interests.”
“Earlier this month, the minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar put forth a proposal to make halal certification mandatory for all food establishments not serving pork or alcohol. We acknowledge that this proposal has sparked uncertainty among food and beverage operators across the nation. While we acknowledge that halal certification can offer economic benefits, including increased business revenue, expanded employment opportunities, and ensuring strict hygiene standards in food preparation, contributing positively to the country’s economic growth, we also understand careful consideration is required in making such a policy mandatory” mentioned in the press release.
“In light of these considerations, we respectfully assert that halal certification remains a voluntary option for local food and beverage operators. This approach would provide businesses the flexibility to make decisions based on their target market and specific business needs, while still encouraging the adoption of halal certification where appropriate” said UMHV.
“We are confident that the authorities will continue to address this matter with the utmost care and transparency. We encourage ongoing dialogues that include voices from all communities, ensuring that the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds that make up our nation are represented in the decision-making process” mentioned in the press release.
“As we move forward, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote economic growth while respecting the rich diversity of our nation.”
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