Muis' Response to Further Articles and Postings Alleging Questionable Halal Certification Practices

29 May 2020

1. It has been brought to Muis’ attention that there have been several further articles published as well as postings appearing on social media casting further aspersions against the integrity of Muis’ halal certification system and Muis officers involved in the certification process.

2. As we have explained in our earlier statement dated 25 April 2020, Muis stands by its robust Halal certification process. Contrary to the allegations, no single person decides on the certification of an applying body. We would like to stress that our local certification processes are ISO certified. Muis also applies the same rigour to the certification of Foreign Halal Certification Bodies (FHCBs).

3. As a Statutory Board, we take all complaints seriously and will carefully review the various allegations raised. The investigation is being led by a senior-ranking officer from Muis, and comprise officers who are not involved in the Halal Unit or its matters. The team will report directly to the Chief Executive. An independent review panel chaired by a Muis Council member has also been established to review the process and findings of the investigation.

4. Thus far, Muis has not been approached by the writers of the articles or posts for comments before they were published. Muis has also not been approached by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) to support any investigations. Muis would like to invite members of the public who have conclusive information and evidence in this matter to assist us in our investigations. We welcome inputs by 15 June via info@muis.gov.sg.

5. In the meantime, as Muis’ investigations are still ongoing, we urge the public not to speculate or spread the allegations, without full knowledge of the facts and findings, as it is unnecessary and counterproductive. Muis will not hesitate to take the appropriate actions should there be any evidence of wrongdoing by its officers, or if the allegations being propagated are found to be untrue.

MAJLIS UGAMA ISLAM SINGAPURA