Kuala lumpur: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) has affirmed that all slaughtering and processing of meat and meat-based products supplied or exported to Malaysia adhere to the standards and regulations set by both Malaysia and Australia. This assurance comes in response to recent claims questioning the integrity of halal meat imports.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JAKIM's director-general, Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, emphasized that the measures ensure only genuinely halal products reach the Malaysian public, particularly the Muslim community. He refuted allegations made in a viral video suggesting that JAKIM does not conduct audits on imported Australian meat. Sirajuddin clarified that the video, titled 'JAKIM jarang audit daging import Australia, rakyat Malaysia termakan bangkai' (JAKIM rarely audits imported Australian meat, Malaysians eat carcasses), is an outdated recording from 2022 and contains misleading information.

Sirajuddin highlighted JAKIM's comprehensive halal assessment and monitoring mechanism, recognized both nationally and internationally. This mechanism involves thorough procedures and includes the evaluation and ongoing monitoring of overseas halal certification bodies recognized by JAKIM. This ensures compliance with Islamic law and Malaysian standards for all products entering the local market.

Furthermore, JAKIM operates a Halal Attache Office at the Malaysian High Commission in Canberra, Australia. This office is tasked with scheduled and continuous oversight of approved slaughterhouses and meat processing plants, as recognized by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Malaysia. Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) also enforces regulations to ensure halal meat meets both Australian export standards and the requirements of importing countries, including Malaysia.

Upon arrival in Malaysia, comprehensive inspections are conducted by the Department of Quarantine and Inspection Services Malaysia (MAQIS) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department. All accompanying documents, such as the halal verification certificate, consignment note, and import details, undergo thorough verification to ensure only products that meet all criteria are allowed into the market.

In light of these processes, Sirajuddin urged the public to verify information before sharing it and to consult competent authorities for confirmation on any halal-related issues.