KUALA LUMPUR – Non-Muslims operating within Kota Bharu have no obligation to obtain the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) for their businesses, despite the mandatory requirement for business licence renewals applying to certain premises.
Kelantan authorities have clarified that this rule applies only to Muslim operators within the Kota Bharu-Islamic City Municipal Council (MPKB-BRI) area and not across all districts.
Kelantan’s executive councillor for Islamic Development, Dakwah, Information, and Regional Relations, Mohd Asri Mat Daud, reassured that non-Muslim businesses are exempt from the requirement.
He also emphasised that the application process for SPHM is straightforward for those who choose to pursue it.
“For non-Muslims, there is no obligation. The condition to renew a business licence is specific to the MPKB-BRI area and does not extend to all districts,” Asri told Scoop.
“The SPHM application process is simple, and applicants will be given a briefing or course before receiving the certificate.”
Asri noted that since January, 453 SPHM certificates have been issued in Kelantan, covering businesses such as hotels, restaurants, eateries, pharmacies, and hair salons.
Out of this total, 405 certificates were granted to Malay-owned businesses, with 48 issued to non-Muslim-owned premises.
Meanwhile, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming stressed that local authorities cannot impose mandatory halal certification requirements on businesses, as this would overstep the jurisdiction of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and conflict with the Federal Government’s stance.
Jakim also confirmed that there is no law mandating SPHM applications and that obtaining the certification is voluntary.
Its director-general, Datuk Sirajuddin Suhaimee said the department encourages businesses to adhere to halal standards, as meeting these regulations adds value to the business through a strong commitment to maintaining halal certification standards. – December 29, 2024