KUANTAN, Oct 19 — The approval period for halal certificate applications and renewals has been shortened to 15 working days from 23 previously, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said this improvement is part of ongoing efforts to streamline and enhance the halal certification process to boost the country’s halal industry.
“In the past, it took nine months, then we reduced it to six months, later to three months. From three months, I requested 23 days, and we achieved that. Now, we’ve reduced it to 15 days on a trial basis.
“This is already in effect, and so far, we are satisfied with the progress. This is due to collaboration between Jakim (Islamic Development Department) and various agencies, such as HDC (Halal Development Corporation Bhd), Matrade (Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation), and the Halal Academy,” he said.
He said this at a press conference after launching the Halal On Track Programme @ Pahang here today. Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar and Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
— Bernama
