Malaysia’s reputation as a premier destination for halal tourism is well-established, yet a critical gap in its marketing strategy could be holding it back. While the country excels in offering Muslim-friendly services, research indicates that its visual branding fails to fully capture the essence of what makes it unique. In an era where digital content…
Jakim bans imports from China, Croatia, France after halal certification withdrawal
Malaysia has imposed an immediate import ban on halal-certified products from three foreign certification bodies following the revocation of their recognition by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). The affected organizations—China Islamic Association, Croatia’s Centre for Halal Quality Certification, and France’s Ritual Association of Lyon’s Great Mosque—must address compliance issues before reconsideration. JAKIM director-general…
F&B outlets in Kelantan must obtain halal certification
Kelantan is taking significant steps to strengthen halal compliance across its business sector, with new regulations making certification mandatory for food and beverage establishments seeking license renewals. The policy, announced by state officials, will initially be enforced by the Kota Bharu Municipal Council before expanding to other local councils. This move marks a departure from…
Buddhist Thailand vies with Malaysia for Asia’s halal dominance
Thailand is positioning itself as a key player in the global halal market, leveraging its culinary expertise to attract Muslim consumers and tourists. Street vendors like Wanitcha Amkham, who sells halal roti in Bangkok, represent the grassroots of this growing industry. However, concerns over fraudulent halal labeling and inconsistent certification threaten to undermine Thailand’s ambitions…
US poultry exports face challenges due to Malaysia’s tough halal rules
Malaysia’s specialized halal regulations for imported poultry are presenting significant hurdles for American producers seeking market access, according to a recent U.S. government analysis. The 2025 National Trade Estimate Report reveals that Malaysia enforces unique certification protocols that exceed global norms, requiring foreign poultry facilities to maintain completely separate halal production lines rather than following…
Global expansion for halal hub rooted in local origins
Malaysia and China are forging a groundbreaking partnership in the halal food sector with the launch of a new industrial park in Perak. The 60-hectare China-Malaysia Halal Food Industrial Park will combine Malaysia’s globally recognized halal certification with China’s advanced food processing and logistics expertise. The project, backed by both governments, aims to create a…
Indonesia’s Halal Sector Attracts Investor Interest
Indonesia’s Halal economy is emerging as a powerhouse, reshaping global markets with its unique blend of religious compliance and economic innovation. With the world’s largest Muslim population, the country has become a focal point for investors eyeing growth in sectors ranging from food to fashion. Government initiatives, coupled with rising consumer demand, are fueling an…
Gloria Jean’s Coffees gets halal certification for 34 stores as Pernas expands franchise
Malaysia’s coffee scene has reached a new milestone as 34 Gloria Jean’s Coffees outlets nationwide received official halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim). The recognition ceremony, organized by Pernas subsidiary Wonderful Lifestyle Sdn Bhd, marks a strategic move to elevate consumer trust in homegrown franchise businesses while meeting growing demand for…
Malaysian National News Agency
Koperasi Tabung Haji Berhad has unveiled Haqqi Mall, a groundbreaking digital marketplace designed to cater to the growing demand for halal-certified products and services. This innovative platform goes beyond traditional e-commerce by integrating shariah-compliant standards across diverse sectors, including fashion, healthcare, and professional services. The platform sets itself apart through rigorous verification processes, with all…
Republican leader compares halal eatery to 7th-century Muslim takeover of Jerusalem
A controversial food service change in Washington’s Capitol Hill has sparked heated debate after a congressman compared the arrival of a Halal restaurant to a medieval military conquest. Republican Representative Mike Collins of Georgia objected to CHA Street Food replacing the popular Steak ‘n Shake, drawing criticism for his inflammatory remarks about the new Asian-American…