Indonesia: Industry Players Demand Transparency in Halal Certification Regulation Drafting

By Leo Jegho, Global Indonesian Voices

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Food sold in supermarket (Photo source: pikiran-rakyat.com)

Jakarta, GIVnews.com – While the government is still drafting a regulation (PP) on ‘halal’ certification, the country’s food and beverage producers, restaurant owners and cosmetics makers demand transparency in the regulation drafting process.

The PP in question is referring to Law No. 34/2014 on the Guarantee of Halal Products.  ‘Halal’ refers to foods and drinks permissible for Muslims under Islamic laws.

The would-be regulation, which must be issued by 17 October 2016 as spelled out by the law, stipulates that any products brought into Indonesia, distributed and traded in the country must be given halal certification. If not, such products must be withdrawn from the market.

Business people claimed that such government regulation would disrupt their operations. Accordingly, they want to be clear about the contents of the PP draft before it becomes a final and binding regulation. For example, they would like to clearly know about the certification process for outlets, kitchens and warehouses.

With enough information about the draft PP, they will be able to make necessary preparations for their activities after the regulation becomes effective, said Kusnadi Rahardja, President Director of food conglomerate Boga Group.

Kontan daily reported that halal certification as mentioned in the draft PP obliges business owners to conduct laboratory tests on the raw materials used for cosmetics, foods, drinks and others.

Putri K. Wardani, chairwoman of the Indonesian Cosmetics Producers Association (PPAKI), suggests that the halal certification should be voluntary.