The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) is advancing technological innovation in the food industry by developing an advanced Artificial Intelligence system to streamline the approval process for halal certificate applications, bringing significant improvements to the industry.
Mohamad Zamri Mohamed Shapik, the director of Jakim’s Halal Management Division, in a recent appearance on Bernama’s Ruang Bicara programme, highlighted the revolutionary impact of this AI technology. “The technology is expected to help Jakim, especially in analyzing ingredients in food products,” he stated. This innovation comes as a response to the intricate and energy-intensive process involved in the approval of halal certificates, particularly for food products.
Delving into the complexities of the current process, Mohamad Zamri explained, “For example, in the application for halal food certification in hotels, there are hundreds of menus that we need to check and there are thousands of ingredients. If we do it manually, it requires a lot of energy. So using AI will not only be a big help to us and the industry but also speed up the halal certificate application process.”
This technological advancement is not just about efficiency; it also reflects Malaysia’s commitment to maintaining its esteemed position in the global halal industry. Malaysia’s Halal certification has been globally recognized, securing the top spot among 81 countries for the 10th consecutive year. Mohamad Zamri emphasized the significance of this achievement and the ongoing efforts to uphold it. “Emphasising the need for continuity, he stressed the importance of maintaining high integrity and adherence to established standards to ensure Malaysia’s halal certification remains respected on a global scale.”
Jakim’s initiative to integrate AI into halal certification processes underscores Malaysia’s innovative approach to maintaining its leadership in the global halal industry. This move not only promises enhanced efficiency and a streamlined process but also reflects the country’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity in its halal certification. As the world watches, Malaysia continues to set the benchmark in the halal industry, now armed with the power of artificial intelligence.
