Kuala lumpur: The i-Mesra digital platform, functioning as a pre-halal reference for entrepreneurs under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW), aligns with rather than duplicates the Malaysian Halal Certification issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), stated Deputy Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rubiah explained that the platform serves as a facilitator for entrepreneurs, incorporating elements outlined by JAKIM to ensure alignment with the halal certification procedures adopted at the federal level. "In fact, the development of the i-Mesra system has taken into account the requirements highlighted by JAKIM, and we have incorporated those elements into the i-Mesra system. Mostly, it meets the requirements for obtaining halal certification, especially for products under KKDW," she conveyed to reporters after launching i-Mesra at the 2025 Mega 3D Carnival (MK3D 2025).
Addressing concerns about the Selangor government's decision not to adopt the i-Mesra system, Rubiah mentioned that while KKDW respects Selangor's choice, they are open to further discussions. "The issue of Selangor rejecting the system because it believes there's a better alternative is not a problem. What matters to us is that there's a system available to help our entrepreneurs expedite the halal certification process," she added.
She further noted that KKDW adopted the i-Mesra system after its introduction by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living due to its user-friendly nature and suitability for entrepreneurs. Last week, media reports highlighted Selangor's rejection of i-Mesra as a platform for verifying or certifying the use of halal or Syariah-compliant ingredients in food premises.
During the event, Rubiah witnessed a Memorandum of Cooperation signing between the Central Terengganu Development Authority (Ketengah) and Koperasi Peserta-Peserta Felcra Malaysia Berhad. She also accepted a Malaysia Book of Records certificate on behalf of KKDW, acknowledging MK3D 2025 as the Largest Entrepreneurship Fair.
MK3D 2025 is a collaborative effort combining three flagship entrepreneurship programs: the Rural Entrepreneurs Carnival by KKDW, the Felda Settlers' Day Celebration by the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda), and the One District One Industry Showcase by the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives. The event hosted over 1,000 entrepreneurs and exhibitors, featuring 882 entrepreneurship booths, creating a comprehensive platform that unites entrepreneurs nationwide.