The Melaka state government has revoked the halal certification of two prestigious five-star hotels in Banda Hilir following their involvement in hosting an alcohol-themed event on the premises. The decisive action came after enforcement officers from the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (Jaim) conducted an inspection based on public complaints. Authorities discovered that the event utilized kitchen equipment certified for halal purposes, violating strict religious guidelines.
According to Rahmad Mariman, the state executive councillor for education, higher learning, and religious affairs, the hotels admitted to the violation during the inspection. The halal certificates, issued approximately five years ago, were immediately withdrawn due to serious non-compliance with shariah principles under Clause 32(3)(a)(ii) of Malaysia’s Domestic Halal Certification Procedure Manual 2020. The hotels now have a three-month window to reapply for certification, provided they meet all requirements and avoid future violations.
Rahmad, who also serves as deputy chairman of the Melaka Islamic Religious Council (Maim), emphasized that Jaim will continue monitoring all 30 other halal-certified hotels in the state to prevent similar incidents. As of now, the two hotels in question have yet to submit new applications for halal recertification. The state government has also pledged not to organize any official events at uncertified establishments until their status is restored.
This firm stance aims to reassure the public about the integrity of halal-certified venues in Melaka. The government’s swift response underscores its commitment to maintaining strict halal compliance, particularly in hospitality businesses catering to Muslim clientele. Such measures are expected to reinforce consumer confidence in the state’s halal certification system.