Gerakan deputy secretary-general Wendy Subramaniam made this appeal and presented several recommendations at a meeting with Asri Mat Daud, chairman of the state Islamic development, dakwah, information and regional relations committee, at his office yesterday morning.

The recommendations advise against rushing enforcement and considering public feedback. It also suggested adding a deferment clause to give traders ample time to prepare for the certification process.

Gerakan also proposed a classification system for businesses based on their halal certification needs, she said.

“This means businesses would have classifications for halal certification, and the consultation or preparation fees would vary based on the classification, preventing a one-size-fits-all policy that could burden operators,” she said in a statement.

Wendy, who is also the party information chief, said Asri assured her that Gerakan’s recommendations would be brought to the state government’s attention.

“Asri also emphasised that all state government approaches are people-centred, adding that halal certification aims to provide mutual benefits, particularly in food and beverage preparation, cleanliness and proper handling for consumers.”

Asri was previously reported as saying that all food and beverage establishment owners in Kelantan would soon need halal certification to renew their business licences, starting with those under the Kota Bharu Municipal Council’s purview.

Local government, housing, health and environment committee chairman Hilmi Abdullah later clarified that non-Muslim outlets would not be affected unless they catered to Muslim customers.

However, the Islamic development department said the Cabinet had already decided to maintain a policy that has been in place since 1974—that halal certification should remain voluntary.