| Azaraimy HH |
THE Syariah authority in the country has urged restaurants and eateries that have been issued Halal certification and labelling to adhere to the rules.
These strict rules not only ensure halalness of the ingredients, but also general hygiene at the business premises, said Mohammad Khairi Ihsannudin Ismon bin Ismail, Food Officer from the Department of Syariah Affairs, Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Speaking to the Bulletin on the sidelines of a briefing on Halal certification and labelling for restaurant and eatery owners organised by the Department of Syariah Affairs, Ministry of Religious Affairs at the Design & Technology Building, Kampong Anggerek Desa, the officer explained that even a slight alteration of items in the menu needs prior approval.
Similarly, not just the overall cleanliness, but any change to the structure of the premises also need to be updated with the relevant authorities.
Regarding the structure of premises, one of the main concerns is to keep the place in good order in terms of hygiene and cleanliness; for instance, animals and rubbish have to be kept away from the main area, he said.
Although, the authority usually exercises some leniency, breach of rules may invite a fine of $4,000, the officer added.
Some of the restaurant and eatery owners at the Halal briefing. – AZARAIMY HH
The briefing was entitled ‘Understanding Halal Certification and Label’ and was organised for food and beverage entrepreneurs that have acquired Halal accreditation from the Brunei Islamic Religious Council and presented by Dayangku Nurul Khairunisa binti Pengiran Karim and Nursyafiqah binti Abdul Latif, officers from the Halal Food Control Division, Department of Syariah Affairs.
It aimed to give a comprehensive explanation to entrepreneurs in the food field, on the requirements of Halal certification and label.
During the briefing, the officials explained the method to clean ‘Najis’ (unhygienic matter) such as animal urine and excrement, especially those belonging to animals that are forbidden in Islam such as dogs.
To ensure that the requirements of Halal certification and labelling are always adhered by the food and beverage entrepreneurs, the Halal Food Control Division will continue to execute spot checks or audits at business premises that have obtained Halal certification, the officials said.
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