15 Aug 2025

Malaysia stands firm on halal certification standards

Malaysia reaffirms strict halal import rules, allowing only Jakim-recognized halal certifications for US meat and poultry imports.

Jess Ramanee

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Malaysia has reiterated that only meat, poultry, and related products certified halal by US-based bodies recognized by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) are allowed for import. These certifications must fully comply with Malaysia’s halal standards under Syariah law.

During a recent parliamentary briefing on US trade negotiations, Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, emphasized that Malaysia will not compromise on halal integrity.

He clarified that current discussions focus solely on monitoring and verification processes conducted by US halal certifiers recognized by Jakim.

Mr Zafrul also dismissed claims that Malaysia would automatically accept all US halal certifications. He called such statements “baseless, misleading and malicious,” saying they do not reflect the actual terms agreed upon during negotiations.

Streamlining certifications

Malaysia and the US have agreed to streamline certification and facility registration procedures for US exports of dairy, meat, and poultry products. These measures aim to ensure compliance with Malaysia’s domestic regulations.

Both sides also agreed to apply regionalization principles for disease control in relation to live poultry and poultry products. Further cooperation will focus on aligning regulations in key industrial sectors based on Malaysia’s existing standards.

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Additional commitments include enhancing cooperation on intellectual property protection, labor standards, environmental safeguards, and sustainable fisheries management, aligned with Malaysia’s international obligations.

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