Exporting halal products from Australia to Malaysia requires strict adherence to the standards set by JAKIM, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia. JAKIM ensures that all products labeled as Halal comply with strict dietary, ethical, and production requirements, providing assurance to consumers that products meet Islamic principles. For Australian exporters, understanding these requirements is essential to successfully access Malaysia’s growing halal market, maintain regulatory compliance, and build consumer trust. Careful planning and proper documentation play a critical role in achieving smooth market entry and avoiding shipment delays.
Understanding JAKIM and Its Role in Halal Certification
JAKIM is the primary authority responsible for halal certification in Malaysia, overseeing both domestic and imported products. It establishes halal standards, audits production facilities, and ensures compliance with Islamic dietary laws. For exporters, obtaining JAKIM certification is mandatory for selling Halal-labeled products in Malaysia. JAKIM also collaborates with approved foreign halal certifiers, including recognized Australian organizations, to verify compliance, ensuring that certificates from these certifiers are valid for import. Understanding JAKIM’s role helps exporters navigate the certification process efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.
Also Read: Why Halal Certification is Important for Businesses
Who Needs Halal Certification in Malaysia (JAKIM)
Halal certification in Malaysia is issued by Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM). It is required for businesses that want to officially use the Malaysian Halal logo.
- Logistics & Warehousing Providers: Companies handling storage and transportation of halal goods.
- Food & Beverage Manufacturers: Companies producing packaged food, drinks, or processed items.
- Restaurants & Food Premises: Restaurants, cafes, hotels, bakeries, and catering services.
- Slaughterhouses (Abattoirs): Facilities handling animal slaughter and meat processing.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care Manufacturers: Brands producing skincare, beauty, and hygiene products.
- Pharmaceutical Companies: Businesses manufacturing medicines or health supplements.
Helpful for you: What Is Halal Certification?
Types of Halal Certificates in Malaysia
Malaysia issues different halal certificates depending on the product type and exporter:
- Halal Certificate for Food & Beverages – Covers consumables including meat, dairy, snacks, and beverages. Ensures that all ingredients, production processes, and handling comply with halal standards.
- Halal Certificate for Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals – Certifies personal care, beauty, and pharmaceutical products as compliant with Islamic principles. Includes verification of raw materials and production practices.
- Halal Certificate for Premises/Facilities – Certifies production sites, restaurants, or warehouses as halal-compliant. Confirms facility hygiene, segregation of halal and non-halal products, and proper storage.
- Importer/Exporter Halal Certificate – Allows companies outside Malaysia to export halal products recognized by JAKIM. Ensures that imported products meet Malaysian halal requirements.
Requirements to Apply for the Halal Certificate in Malaysia
1. Approved Halal Certifier Recognition
Exporters must obtain Halal certification through a body officially recognised by JAKIM. For Australian exporters, this includes certifiers such as ICCV, AHDAA, NHASA or other JAKIM-approved organisations. Certification from unrecognised bodies is not accepted. Using an approved certifier prevents delays and compliance issues at Malaysian entry points.
2. Ingredient Compliance
All ingredients must comply with Halal requirements and be free from Haram substances. This includes pork, alcohol, blood, and non-Halal animal derivatives. JAKIM requires complete ingredient lists and supplier declarations. Ingredient traceability is critical for approval.
3. Production Process Compliance
Manufacturing processes must prevent contamination with non-Halal materials. This requires segregated production lines or validated cleaning procedures. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) may be reviewed by auditors. Consistent process control ensures Halal integrity.
Must Read: How to Get Halal Certification in Australia
4. Storage and Handling Requirements
Halal products must be stored and handled separately from non-Halal items. Storage areas must be clean, clearly identified, and controlled. Handling procedures should prevent cross-contamination. Proper storage is assessed during audits.
5. Documentation and Record-Keeping
Applicants must maintain accurate and complete documentation. This includes ingredient records, production logs, supplier certificates, and training records. Documentation supports audits and verification. Poor record-keeping can delay approval.
6. Halal-Compliant Packaging and Labeling
Packaging materials must not contain Haram substances or pose contamination risks. Product labels must comply with Malaysian Halal labeling guidelines. Misleading Halal claims are not permitted. Packaging compliance is reviewed during certification.
Also Read: Halal Requirements for Exporting Food from Australia
7. Staff Training and Halal Awareness
Employees involved in production and handling must receive Halal training. Training records must be documented and available for review. Staff awareness reduces compliance risks. Trained personnel support consistent Halal practices.
8. Facility Hygiene and Sanitation Standards
Facilities must meet strict hygiene and cleanliness requirements. Cleaning procedures must be documented and regularly implemented. Equipment must be suitable for Halal production. Hygiene standards are a core audit focus.
9. Internal Halal Control System
Businesses must implement an internal Halal control or assurance system. This includes monitoring compliance and managing corrective actions. A designated Halal team or officer may be required. Internal controls support long-term compliance.
10. Audit Readiness and Ongoing Compliance
Applicants must be prepared for on-site audits conducted by JAKIM or recognised bodies. Non-compliance must be corrected promptly. Halal certification requires continuous adherence to standards. Ongoing compliance ensures certificate validity.
Get Detailed Guide: How to Conduct a Halal Audit
Process to Apply for Halal Certification in Malaysia
1. Select a Recognized Halal Certifier
First, choose a Halal certification body in Australia that JAKIM officially recognises. Working with an approved certifier ensures your application meets Malaysian Halal standards. Certificates issued by non-recognised bodies are not accepted. This step is critical to avoid delays and compliance issues.
2. Prepare Documentation
Exporters must compile detailed ingredient lists, manufacturing process flowcharts, supplier Halal declarations, and facility information. These documents verify that raw materials, production processes, and handling procedures comply with JAKIM requirements. Accurate documentation reduces processing delays. It also simplifies the audit process.
3. Submit the Application
Submit the application through the approved certifier or via the JAKIM Halal certification portal. All supporting documents must be complete and correctly formatted. Missing or incorrect information can lead to revision requests. This may extend processing timelines.
4. Facility Audit
JAKIM or the recognised certifier conducts an on-site audit to assess compliance. Inspectors review production processes, storage areas, sanitation practices, and segregation controls. The audit verifies that the organization properly implements its documented procedures. Maintaining Halal integrity is the primary focus.
5. Certificate Issuance
After completing the documentation and audits successfully, JAKIM issues the Halal certificate. This authorises products for export into Malaysia. The certificate is valid for a specified period. Renewal is required to maintain approval.
6. Ongoing Compliance and Monitoring
Halal certification requires continuous compliance with JAKIM standards. Businesses must maintain records, update documentation when changes occur, and prepare for periodic audits. Ongoing compliance protects certification status. It also ensures uninterrupted access to the Malaysian Halal market.
How NHASA Can Help You – Halal Certification for Exporting from Australia to Malaysia
NHASA specializes in assisting Australian businesses with obtaining JAKIM-recognized halal certification. We guide exporters in selecting approved certifiers, preparing accurate documentation, and ensuring audit readiness. NHASA’s expertise reduces compliance risks, accelerates approvals, and helps businesses confidently enter the Malaysian market with products that meet strict halal standards. Partnering with NHASA streamlines the certification process and ensures regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
Exporting halal products to Malaysia requires strict adherence to JAKIM standards. By understanding certification requirements, preparing detailed documentation, and partnering with recognized certifiers like NHASA, Australian exporters can successfully access Malaysia’s lucrative halal market. Proper preparation ensures compliance, smooth export processes, and consumer trust in halal-labeled products.
FAQs
Do Malaysian authorities automatically accept an Australian Halal certificate?
It is valid only if issued by a JAKIM-recognized Australian certifier; otherwise, you must obtain additional approval from JAKIM.
How long does it take to get JAKIM Halal certification?
The process typically takes 2–6 months, depending on documentation completeness, facility audits, and product type.
Can all types of products be certified Halal for Malaysia?
Yes, including food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and production facilities, provided they meet JAKIM standards.
How often does JAKIM audit certified facilities?
Authorities conduct audits periodically, with the frequency depending on risk assessment and product category.
Can NHASA handle the entire Halal certification process?
Yes. NHASA provides end-to-end support, from selecting certifiers to preparing audits and documentation.