Halal certs of two 5-star hotels in Melaka revoked over ‘alcohol parties’

 A raid found that kitchen equipment meant only for the preparation of halal food had been used at the events two weeks ago.

State religious affairs executive councillor Rahmad Mariman said the two five-star hotels admitted to organising the event. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 The Melaka Islamic religious department has revoked the halal certification of two five-star hotels in the state for hosting “alcohol parties” two weeks ago.

State religious affairs executive councillor Rahmad Mariman said a raid found that kitchen equipment meant only for the preparation of halal food had been used during the events, Sinar Harian reported.

“(The revocation of their halal certification) is in accordance with Clause 32(3)(a)(ii) of the Malaysian Halal Certification Procedure Manual (Domestic) 2020,” he was quoted as saying.

Rahmad said the raid, conducted following complaints from the public, confirmed that the parties had taken place at the hotels. The hotels, which have been halal-certified for the past five years, also admitted to organising the event.

He said the two hotels may apply for halal certification again within three months, but this would be subject to their compliance with the set requirements.

“If we are satisfied, the certificate may be reinstated. We hope this firm action will boost public confidence in halal-certified premises in Melaka,” he said, adding that 30 hotels in Melaka currently have halal certification. - FMT