Kuala lumpur: The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, has called on halal auditors to carry out their responsibilities with full integrity and fairness, regardless of the background or size of the company. Speaking to reporters after officiating the Malaysian Auditor Convention 2025, he emphasised the important role auditors play as the front line in ensuring compliance with halal standards. Any negligence or unfairness could tarnish the image of Islam and religious institutions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, fairness must be upheld without differentiating the position of applicants seeking halal certification. Dr Mohd Na'im stressed the issue of halal sustenance, urging auditors to avoid involvement in corruption or abuse of power. He highlighted that justice should be the key principle in the auditing process, including rejecting any form of bribery or preferential treatment towards companies based on their brand or status.

'Sometimes, it's not directly requested, but we make things difficult for applicants, leading them to believe auditors expect rewards. Intentions must be correct. Do not accept any form of gifts from halal certificate applicants,' he added. He also reminded the over 300 auditors certified by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) to maintain ethical standards and protect the reputation of the institution to strengthen efforts to ensure halal sustenance.

The inaugural convention organised by JAKIM gathered 200 halal auditors from across the country, with the theme 'Halal Malaysia, A Catalyst for MADANI Economy.' At the event, Mohd Na'im also launched the Halal Auditor Guidelines, which will serve as a key reference for all auditors. This was followed by the implementation of a special course to strengthen their understanding of the guidelines. Currently, there are 380 halal auditors in Malaysia, with 202 of them officially recognised as competent.