JAKARTA – In a landmark achievement that underscores its deep commitment to Malaysia’s diverse cultural landscape, IKEA Malaysia has successfully obtained comprehensive halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) for its entire network of restaurants, cafés, and bistros. The certification, announced on September 24, 2025, marks the formal recognition of practices the company has maintained for nearly three decades.

Formalizing Long-Standing Commitment

This official certification represents more than a regulatory milestone—it validates IKEA Malaysia’s sustained dedication to serving its Muslim customers with integrity and cultural sensitivity. For almost 30 years, the Swedish retailer has voluntarily implemented halal practices across its Malaysian food operations, demonstrating a proactive approach to cultural accommodation that extends far beyond mere compliance.

Malcolm Pruys, Country Retail Director of IKEA Malaysia, emphasized the emotional significance of this achievement: “Malaysians’ love for our food has always inspired us, and that is something we hold close. In Malaysia, halal is not just about compliance. It is a matter of trust, cultural respect, and spiritual assurance.”

Rigorous Certification Process

The path to JAKIM certification involved comprehensive evaluations of IKEA Malaysia’s food operations. The certification authority conducted thorough inspections examining multiple operational aspects, including ingredient sourcing protocols, kitchen workflow management, and staff training programs. This meticulous review process ensured that every element of food preparation and service met JAKIM’s stringent halal standards.

Throughout its operations, IKEA Malaysia has maintained strict policies regarding ingredient procurement, exclusively sourcing halal-certified components while completely prohibiting non-permissible items from entering its kitchen facilities. This systematic approach to ingredient management formed a crucial foundation for achieving official certification.

Comprehensive Coverage and Customer Confidence

The certification encompasses all IKEA Malaysia food service locations, spanning the company’s stores in Cheras, Damansara, Batu Kawan, and Johor Bahru. This nationwide coverage ensures consistency in halal standards across all outlets, providing customers with confidence whether they’re enjoying the retailer’s famous Swedish meatballs or exploring other menu offerings.

The formal certification significantly enhances customer trust, particularly important in Malaysia where approximately 61% of the population identifies as Muslim according to Department of Statistics Malaysia data. This demographic reality underscores the strategic importance of halal certification for businesses operating in the Malaysian market.

Strategic Alignment with Broader Values

Beyond regulatory compliance, the certification aligns with IKEA Malaysia’s comprehensive approach to quality, safety, sustainability, and inclusivity. Pruys highlighted this broader significance, stating: “Achieving certification deepens the bond we share with Malaysians and demonstrates that we value what matters to them most.”

The company’s vision extends to making its food experience “more inclusive, accessible, and affordable” while simultaneously introducing sustainable dining choices and implementing food waste reduction initiatives. This holistic approach positions meals as offerings that are “better for people and the planet,” reflecting global sustainability trends within halal food practices.

Market Context and Economic Impact

The certification comes at a time of robust growth in Malaysia’s halal food sector. Industry projections indicate the global halal food market could reach USD 113.2 billion by 2030, with Malaysia positioned as a key player in this expanding ecosystem. IKEA Malaysia’s formal entry into certified halal dining strengthens its competitive position in this lucrative market segment.

Malaysia’s halal certification system, administered by JAKIM, enjoys international recognition for its rigorous standards and comprehensive oversight. This reputation enhances the value of halal certification for businesses operating within Malaysia’s borders and those seeking to export halal products globally.

Enhanced Transparency and Verification

To ensure ongoing transparency, IKEA Malaysia actively encourages customers to independently verify the halal status of its outlets through JAKIM’s official verification channels, including the MyHalal portal (https://myhalal.jakim.gov.my). This approach demonstrates the company’s confidence in its certification status while empowering customers to conduct their own verification.

Building Cultural Bridges

The achievement represents more than a business milestone—it exemplifies how international companies can successfully integrate local cultural and religious values into their operations. IKEA Malaysia’s journey from voluntary halal practices to formal certification illustrates a model of cultural adaptation that respects local sensibilities while maintaining global brand identity.

This certification strengthens IKEA Malaysia’s reputation as a provider of not only quality home furnishing solutions but also culturally resonant dining experiences that honor Malaysian values and traditions.

Looking Forward

The formal halal certification positions IKEA Malaysia to capitalize on growing demand for certified halal dining options among both local and international customers. As Malaysia continues to strengthen its position as a global halal hub, companies like IKEA Malaysia that demonstrate genuine commitment to halal practices are well-positioned to benefit from this expanding market opportunity.

For customers seeking additional information about IKEA Malaysia’s halal certification, inquiries can be directed through the company’s official website or directly to JAKIM at info@jakim.gov.my.

Original Article:

Halal Times. (2025, September 29). IKEA Malaysia’s Food Outlets Now Fully JAKIM Halal-Certified.  Retrieved from https://www.halaltimes.com/ikea-malaysias-food-outlets-now-fully-jakim-halal-certified/