Pahang: The Pahang Islamic Religious Department (JAIP) is targeting to ensure that all food establishments located at rest and service areas (RandRs) along the East Coast Expressway (LPT) in Pahang achieve halal certification by the end of the year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JAIP director Datuk Ahmad Khirrizal Ab Rahman emphasized that this initiative is designed to bolster consumer confidence, particularly among Muslims, in terms of the cleanliness, safety, and sourcing of food offered at these locations. Presently, 50 food premises along the LPT have already been certified halal, including those at the Temerloh eastbound and westbound RandRs, as well as Genting Highlands, which are officially recognized as halal zones.

Ahmad Khirrizal stated that the department's ultimate goal is to ensure all food premises at LPT RandRs attain halal certification. He made these remarks while addressing the media during the launch of the halal zone at the Gambang RandR (westbound). This initiative, executed in collaboration with LPT operator AFA PRIME Berhad, seeks to solidify the halal ecosystem along this expressway.

Further, Ahmad Khirrizal mentioned that JAIP is committed to providing guidance and advisory services to Pahang entrepreneurs interested in obtaining halal certification. The department is also considering proposing financial assistance as an incentive, contingent upon the state government's budget allocation.

JAIP has pledged support in document preparation and advisory services. Additionally, the department has proposed financial assistance to aid entrepreneurs in securing halal certification. Presently, 595 food-related premises across Pahang have achieved halal certification, encompassing various schemes such as food premises, products, original equipment manufacturing (OEM), and abattoirs.