Malaysian state of Sarawak bars non-halal eateries from using Ramadan terms in ads
Restriction aims to prevent misleading consumers about halal compliance
KUCHING, Malaysia (MNTV) — The Sarawak state in Malaysia has introduced a new regulation restricting non-halal certified eateries from using Ramadan-related terms in their advertisements.
The move is intended to protect Muslim consumers from potentially being misled about the halal status of food offered by uncertified establishments, according to The MalayMail.
The Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) clarified that eateries without Malaysian Halal Verification Certificates are prohibited from using phrases such as “Ramadan Buffet,” “Ramadan Iftar,” “Jom Iftar” (loosely translated to “Let’s break the fast”), and “Ramadan Selera” (“Ramadan taste”), among others.
This step is part of a broader effort to ensure that Muslim consumers are not misled into assuming that food from uncertified premises meets halal standards.
The ban specifically targets iftar, the meal traditionally consumed to break the fast after sunset during Ramadan.
“This measure ensures that consumers, particularly Muslims, are not misled into believing that food offerings from uncertified establishments comply with halal standards,” JAIS emphasized.
The move underscores the commitment to safeguarding halal standards and ensuring consumer trust during Ramadan.