Just a few days back, a hotel in Kuala Lumpur went viral for an elevator with a “non-halal lift” sign in it. The hotel has since responded and said that the sign was a requirement to obtain the Halal certification for the back-of-house operations.

In Malaysia, JAKIM is often the responsible organisation that approves Halal certification for the food & beverage industry. The “non-halal lift” sign has also gained the attention of the organisation, but JAKIM had something else to say about it.

“There’s no need for a non-Halal lift sign”

In a Facebook post last night (October 6), JAKIM cleared the air and said that there is no clause that specifically states a “non-Halal” sign for an elevator is necessary to obtain Halal certification. This is based on the Malaysian Halal Certification Procedure Manual (Domestic) 2020 as well as the Malaysian Halal Management System 2020. 

However, the hotel or premises can establish any halal control mechanism that is appropriate for the hotel’s facilities in accordance with the procedures that have been established to maintain the integrity of Malaysia’s Halal Certification.

The circulation of the image has caused debate and discussions among many Malaysians online. It did not take long for the said hotel in KL to highlight that the “non-Halal” elevator is designated to carry and transport non-Halal goods and perishable items. In the meantime, they also said that the signboard will be reworded to avoid more confusion in the future.

Here’s what JAKIM will say NO to

In case you are wondering what makes a business operation disqualified for Halal certification, the official portal of Halal Malaysia has shared a list of reasons why you may not receive the significant certification.

• Producing and manufacturing non-Halal goods
• Natural goods that are not processed.
• Products or medicines that are classified as “pharmaceuticals” by the Ministry of Health
• Hair colour products
• Finished processed products that are manufactured overseas
• Fertilisers and animal food

We hope JAKIM’s explanation will clear the air and as Malaysians, it’s always good to know a thing or two about Halal certification.

Also read: “Appreciate their efforts” – M’sian Calls Out People Who Question If Food Donations Are Halal