Source: Free Malaysia Today

JAKARTA – The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) has addressed misconceptions regarding delays in halal certification for a catering company contracted by Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), following findings in the latest government audit report.

Clarification on Certification Timeline

JAKIM Director-General Sirajuddin Suhaimee explained that confusion arose over the identity of the “person in charge” referenced in relation to the halal certification process. The misunderstanding was resolved during discussions between JAKIM officials and HCTM management after the auditor-general’s report highlighted compliance issues.

The 2025 Auditor-General’s Report Series 2 revealed that HCTM had awarded a substantial RM25.64 million three-year catering contract to company 0267299-T, which lacked proper halal certification from JAKIM at the time of contract commencement.

Personnel Challenges Explained

According to Sirajuddin’s statement, the delays were attributed to internal staffing issues within the contracted company rather than procedural delays by JAKIM. The certification process was impacted when the company’s designated halal compliance officer went on maternity leave, requiring the appointment and training of a replacement.

“The individual mentioned was not a JAKIM representative, but rather the company’s internal person responsible for managing the halal certification application,” Sirajuddin clarified. “HCTM explained that the newly appointed officer required comprehensive training before assuming responsibilities as a halal executive.”

Contract Details and Compliance Requirements

The catering contract, spanning from February 2024 to February 2027, was specifically designed to provide halal meals to HCTM patients. This requirement aligned with the hospital’s main kitchen facilities, which had already received proper halal certification from JAKIM.

Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir had previously indicated that the company initiated its halal certification application immediately following the tender award in 2024. However, the certification process experienced delays due to the personnel transition issues within the company.

Institutional Response and Commitment

JAKIM emphasized its continued dedication to maintaining transparency and integrity throughout all halal certification procedures. The department stated that all processes must comply fully with established regulatory standards to ensure the authenticity and reliability of halal certifications.

In response to the audit findings, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, which operates HCTM as its teaching hospital, has committed to strengthening its procurement procedures. The university aims to prevent similar compliance gaps in future service contracts.

Broader Implications for Hospital Procurement

This incident highlights the critical importance of ensuring proper documentation and certification compliance in hospital food services, particularly in Malaysia where halal requirements are essential for patient care. The case demonstrates the need for robust verification processes during the tender evaluation phase.

The audit report’s findings serve as a reminder for public institutions to implement comprehensive due diligence procedures when awarding contracts for services that require specific religious or dietary compliance certifications.

Moving Forward

The resolution of this misunderstanding reinforces the importance of clear communication between certification bodies, service providers, and institutional clients. JAKIM’s clarification helps restore confidence in the halal certification process while emphasizing the shared responsibility of all parties in maintaining compliance standards.

The incident also underscores the need for companies seeking halal certification to maintain adequate staffing and succession planning for critical compliance roles, ensuring continuity in certification processes regardless of personnel changes.

Original article:

freemalaysiatoday.com. (n.d.). Jakim denies delay in issuing hospital vendor halal certification. Retrieved July 28, 2025, https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/07/25/jakim-seeks-to-clear-air-over-hospital-vendors-halal-certification-issue