Food operators told not to deceive Muslims on halal food

Minister Jamil Khir Baharom sends out the reminder in view of the start of the holy month of Ramadhan.

YAN: Operators of food premises open for business during Ramadan which are not issued the halal certificate are reminded not to deceive Muslims by claiming to sell halal food.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Jamil Khir Baharom said obtaining the halal certificate was not a requirement for operators of food premises and added, “But I hope those that do not have the halal certificate, but also serve Muslims customers, ensure food served to the Muslims is hygienically prepared and does not contain non-halal ingredients.

“As for Muslims, if they doubt the halal status of food sold, they should go to premises which have the halal certificate issued by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim),” he told reporters after launching the Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s “Rumah Baiti Jannati” programme at Sungai Daun, here today.

Jamil Khir, who is also Jerai Member of Parliament said Jakim would conduct periodical checks at food outlets, including restaurants and hotels, during Ramadan to ensure their Ramadan buffet offers complied with halal standards.

— BERNAMA