PAS proposing Halal logos to differentiate products made by Muslims and non-Muslims

Such a proposal takes Malaysia further away from prevailing international standards

At the 70^th PAS Muktamar in Temerloh last weekend, PAS passed a motion that would drastically change the Halal system in Malaysia. Should PAS re-enter the federal government again, the party will instruct JAKIM to introduce a halal logo system that informs consumers whether the products are manufactured by Muslims or Non-Muslims.

This is the most radical Halal logo system in the world, as no other countries, Muslim or non-Muslim take this approach. They simply state whether the product has Halal status.

This is not a new idea. The Persatuan Penguna Islam Malaysia or Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM) proposed a similar system earlier this year. The proposed tri-colour scheme of green, orange and red would symbolise businesses owned 100 percent by Muslims, Joint ventures between Muslims and non-Muslims, and those owned 100 percent by non-Muslims.

PPIM Halal proposal not un-similar to PAS proposal

This proposal was attacked by net-citizens at the time and JAKIM also dismissed the concept publicly, saying it was unnecessary.

With a number of meetings on Halal taking place in Kuala Lumpur this week, perhaps there should be a focus on supply chain and analysis. This is the approach taken in Thailand, a country where Muslims are the minority. Hal-Q is a wholistic approach to Halal certification and management. Many multinational companies in Europe have taken up the Thai initiated system, in preference to the Malaysian Halal protocols.

Thai Halal system accepted by many international companies,

The latest proposal by PAS may be taking Malaysia further away from acceptable international protocols.

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