Zahid Proposes Mandatory Full-Time Halal Executive for JAKIM-Certified Companies

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today that all companies holding halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) should be required to appoint a full-time halal executive to ensure strict compliance with halal standards. Zahid, who is also chairman of the National Halal Council, said the proposal is intended to strengthen preventive mechanisms rather than rely solely on enforcement action after a violation occurs. Speaking at the closing of a national consultative conference titled “Malay Concerns: Where Are the Solutions?”, he said the current practice of revoking halal certification only after a violation is no longer sufficient. “In halal matters, we cannot act only after a violation occurs. Revoking certification after a problem arises is not enough. We need a more proactive and more accountable preventive system,” he said. “I believe everyone here will agree with my proposal — that every company holding JAKIM halal certification should be required to establish a full-time and permanent halal executive position,” he said. Zahid also called for the creation of a halal auditor function to review advertising, packaging, menus, digital platforms and marketing materials. He said this is a necessary measure to address the growing use of vague terms in the market, such as “Muslim-friendly”, “no pork, no lard” and “Muslim choice”. “We do not want these terms to mislead consumers. What we want is this: if a product is genuinely halal, it should carry a clear halal certification mark, so that Muslims are not misled by these labels,” he said. Zahid also noted that 67% of halal products on the market are produced by non-Muslim entrepreneurs, stressing the need for better integration and regulation within the industry. “Halal products are not only for Muslims but for people of all faiths. Halal food is scientifically verified, and its cleanliness and hygiene are well documented. We must dispel the misconception that ‘halal is only for Muslims’,” he said.