
Consumers are more well-informed now, and they understand that a “no pork, no lard” signage does not mean an eatery has been certified halal, according to Gerakan president Dominic Lau.
Lau said that consumers know what to choose and what to avoid. “So, I don’t see the use of such a phrase as inherently misleading,” he told FMT.
“The focus should be on transparency and education, not overregulation,” he added.
Lau was commenting on a reminder by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) that eateries that do not carry a halal certification are prohibited from displaying signages touting “no pork no lard” or “Muslim-friendly” menus.
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) issues the certification.
Under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, JAIS explained that the law prohibits any use of…