Puchong:Kuala Lumpur A chicken slaughterhouse suspected of operating without local authority permits and lacking the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) is not within the halal certification monitoring records of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, revealed that preliminary inspections indicated the premises was processing and distributing fresh chicken without the necessary approvals. He emphasized the seriousness of the issue, citing its impact on Syariah compliance, hygiene, and public confidence in the halal status of chicken in the market.

Dr. Zulkifli noted that the operational and sales records of the premises are not included in the halal certification monitoring records of JAKIM or the respective State Islamic Religious Departments. Halal certification in Malaysia is overseen under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, and a slaughterhouse scheme exists to ensure compliance with Syariah principles and halal certification requirements.

While JAKIM, along with State Islamic Religious Departments and Councils, conducts audits and monitoring of premises holding the SPHM, halal certification remains voluntary in Malaysia. This necessitates cross-agency cooperation with local authorities and other enforcement agencies to regulate all slaughterhouses.

Dr. Zulkifli stated that JAKIM is enhancing joint inspections and intelligence sharing to safeguard consumer interests and maintain the integrity of the halal poultry supply chain. For suspected misuse of halal logos, JAKIM collaborates with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living and other agencies for verification and investigation.

He highlighted that stationing halal supervisors at abattoirs is a mandatory requirement for any slaughterhouse seeking Malaysian Halal Certification. JAKIM has previously issued compounds totaling RM40,000 against companies for non-compliance.

On October 30, a media report detailed the seizure of over 6.5 tonnes of raw chicken suspected of being processed without adhering to Syariah regulations. The raid, conducted in Puchong, Selangor, also led to the detention of twelve individuals believed to be involved in the operation.