‘Pork-Free’ Label Misleads Muslims In Malaysia?

Only food at outlets that carried the halal certificates from the Malaysia Islamic Development Department (Jakim) could be consumed by Muslims,said Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki. 

He said Outlets which just put the ‘pork-free’ label at their premises do not represent what is meant by halal.

According to Dr Asyraf the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry and the states had laws to take action against food outlet operators who misled Muslims with their “pork-free” Labeling. 

“There is an urgent need to educate the public, especially Muslims, to distinguish between an authentic halal logo and ‘pork-free’ labeling.

“Muslims must always be conscious of the requirements of Syariah law when it comes to food. The ‘pork-free’ label does not mean the food served is halal,” he added.

Last Saturday, the Pahang State Islamic Religious Department (JAIP) issued a restriction order on food outlets in the state not to use the term "pork-free" or "no pork" at their premises to avoid confusing the public.