Islamic body lauds McDonald’s Malaysia for halal cake initiative

KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) said on Wednesday (Jan 4) that the policy by McDonald's Malaysia to allow only halal-certified cakes in its premises is consistent with its certification for food premises.

In the first public statement since the issue arose last week, the department pointed to the requirements for halal certification as per the Manual Procedure for Malaysia Halal Certification (Third Revision) 2014.

“Jakim views the policy brought forth by McDonald’s to be a good initiative and strong commitment by the company in its halal assurance efforts at McDonald's premises, based on the Halal Assurance Management System,” the Islamic body said in a statement.

It is unclear how the rule would be enforced by Jakim, and how it extends to outlets that also sell or serve alcohol.

Last week, McDonald’s Malaysia confirmed that it has enforced a policy barring customers from bringing cakes without halal certification into its premises.

It later explained that the rule was a Jakim requirement, after the fast food chain came under criticism for the policy.

Attempts to confirm similar policies at other major fast food chains have gone unanswered. MALAY MAIL ONLINE