Kuala lumpur: Malaysia can revoke recognition by JAKIM of two halal certification bodies in the United States (US) if they violate the country’s halal standards or protocols.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar stated that, under Article 2.5 of the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) with the US, any foreign halal certification body must fully adhere to Malaysian Syariah procedures and halal standards. He emphasized that the halal logo provided to recognized certification bodies serves administrative purposes to facilitate approvals, with all auditing, monitoring, and final verification remaining under JAKIM’s jurisdiction.

Dr. Mohd Na’im further explained that if any violations are detected during JAKIM’s audits, the department holds the authority to withdraw recognition from the certified body. This statement was made during the winding up of the debate on the Supply Bill (Budget) 2026 at the committee stage in Parliament.

Additionally, regarding the Muslim Friendly Watch (MFW), Dr. Mohd Na’im mentioned that the organization has been instructed to cease using any halal logo or statements related to ‘Muslim Choice’ that could potentially mislead the public. Following the public scrutiny over the issue, MFW decided to dissolve itself under the Societies Act 1966.