Kuala Lumpur: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), in partnership with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), has announced plans to remove Indonesian food products containing porcine DNA from the Malaysian market if such products are found to be available.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali stated that discussions have already been held with JAKIM to ensure timely action in withdrawing the affected products. The minister emphasized the swift response, noting the immediate engagement with JAKIM to facilitate the removal process. Coordination with JAKIM and state-level religious authorities will be based on the announcement by Indonesia’s halal authority, with immediate measures to be taken to address the issue.

On Tuesday, JAKIM ordered the recall of several imported food products from Indonesia after tests revealed the presence of porcine DNA. The director-general of JAKIM, Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, mentioned that the recall follows an announcement by Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH). A joint investigation with the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) found traces of porcine DNA in 11 batches of nine food products. Among these, nine batches from seven products were certified as halal, while two batches from two products were uncertified, as listed on the agency’s website.

For the record, KPDN and JAKIM frequently collaborate on issues related to the misuse of halal logos and consumer affairs, ensuring that the integrity of halal products in the market is maintained.