KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 — The government remains firm on halal standards while facilitating the import of meat and poultry products into Malaysia by recognising halal certificates from United States certification bodies, said the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI).
These certificates must comply with the standards set by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim), said MITI, adding that Malaysia’s approach is more towards streamlining the process of importing US goods into the country.
“The commitments agreed upon in these negotiations provide the government with an opportunity to review outdated, overlapping, or irrelevant policies, processes and procedures, so that improvements can be implemented.
“These improvements will enhance the ease of doing business, productivity, and innovation, making Malaysia more competitive and a prime investment destination in the region,” it said in a written parliamentary reply today.
The reply was in response to a query from Senator Datuk Mohd Hatta Ramli about MITI’s plans to safeguard Malaysia’s interests in tariff negotiations with the US.
MITI is in discussions with the US administration to finalise the agreement that will be signed by both countries.
It will also continue to monitor developments and the implementation of reciprocal tariffs, while formulating appropriate strategies to mitigate the impact on local industries and to ensure national economic stability and the people’s well-being are preserved.
