Malaysia was recognized as the world’s leading Halal Hub. Consuming Halal food is an essential part of the Islamic faith and is an order of Allah. Halal in Arabic means ‘permissible’ and adheres to Islamic law1. The permission of the lord of all existence, Allah (S.W.T) command Muslims and all people to consume Halal products in the Quran. The examples of such verses are: “O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth (that is) lawful and pure” (Holy Quran 2:168), “So eat of that (meat) upon which Allah’s name has been mentioned, if you are believers in His verses” (Holy Quran 6:118). Halal Food will be the biggest step to ensure the heart (spirit) and body to live healthy and prosperity to emerge. The opposite for Halal is Haram. Haram which Allah and the Prophet have completely and specifically forbidden1. Engaging in an act that is Haram (i.e. eating food like pork, drinking alcohol) would lead to punishment in the Akhirat.
Recently, the authorities have nudged local eateries to obtain certification to prove their food is safe for Muslim consumption. When the company gets Halal certificate from an authority foundation, it demonstrates that the relating company produce high quality level product as Halal Certificate represents the most ultimate level of quality standards. Nowadays, Halal industry not only affects Muslim, but also gained growing interest from non-Muslim users due to it is a global symbol for quality assurance and lifestyle choice 2.
On 29 September 2016, Halvec and RQ-C had successfully organized Halal Scientific Awareness Program 2.0 in order to create awareness about the importance of Halal scientific approach among Halal practitioners. The training course was aimed to enhance knowledge and skills among Halal practitioners in conducting halal authentication analysis via rapid screening tests, ELISA test as well as DNA analysis (PCR/qPCR).
In coming 17 November 2016, Halal Scientific Awareness Program 3.0 will be held to help individual to strengthen overall understanding of technical process and analysis in Halal testing.
Briefing on porcine detection using PorcineTrace Rapid Test Kit
Participants learn to perform DNA extraction
References:
- Husain, I. A. Ghani, A. F. Mohammad, and S. Mehad (2012), “Current practises among Halal cosmetics manufacturers in Malaysia,” Journal of Statistical Modelling and Analytic, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 46-51
- M. W. Omar, M. Z. Muhammad, and A. C. Omar (2008), “An analysis of the Muslim consumers’ attitude towards halal food products in Kelantan,” presented at ECER Regional Conference.