KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — The shortened approval period for the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) to 30 days has successfully encouraged more entrepreneurs in Selangor to apply for the certification.
State executive councillor for halal industry Dr Mohammad Fahmi Ngah said that to date, 8,313 entrepreneurs in the state have obtained halal certification, representing nearly 30 per cent of all SPHM holders in Malaysia.
“Selangor is now the main driver of the nation’s halal industry. Efforts to expedite this process in turn provide confidence to traders and facilitate their business dealings,” he said.
Fahmi was speaking to the press after the pre-launch of the Selangor HalalVibe Festival at the Selangor Pavilion, in conjunction with the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas) 2025 today.
He added that the process, which previously took up to 60 days, can now be completed within 23 to 25 working days.
“It is now capped at a maximum of 30 days. If it exceeds that period, the state is committed to refunding the processing fees.
“As for renewals, if the applicant still fulfils the previous requirements, approval can be granted within just 24 to 48 hours,” Fahmi said.
In September last year, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi instructed the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) to simplify procedures for the application and renewal of SPHM, with a mandatory decision to be given within 30 working days.
The move is also supported by the organisation of halal certification workshops at least three times a year to ensure applicants understand the guidelines and comply with the prescribed standards.
