Singapore’s Halal certifying body denies corruption allegation

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has dismissed allegations by foreign media that its Halal certification process is corrupt.
A recent article published on 22 April by Hong Kong-based media, Asia Sentinel claimed that the muslim body showed “favouritism” in its recognition of foreign Halal certification bodies (FCBs). It had also alleged that the Assistant Director of the council’s Halal Certification Strategic Unit, Mr Munir Hussain, is now being investigated for corruption by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB).
FCBs are organisations MUIS deems to have similar standards to its own Halal certification system, and whose products imported here are certified as Halal or fit for the consumption of Muslims here. These organisations can earn thousands of dollars monthly by selling exported products to Singapore. MUIS asserted that it only recognises FCBs that are able to demonstrate that they adhere to similar standards adopted by MUIS. This includes organisational governance and competence as well as compatibility in religious standards and guidelines.
MUIS manages the process of Halal certification to the highest standards of governance, and its processes are aligned with international standards.
Asia Sentinel alleged that Mr Munir had interfered and caused MUIS’ delisting of a certifying body in Australia as an FCB. MUIS explained that key decisions on Halal certification are not made by one person, but by an independent panel.
There are currently 74 Muis-certified FCBs. Over the past 10 years, Muis had also removed the FCB recognition status of 10 organisations which did not meet its requirements.
MUIS is currently investigating the media allegations and is considering taking legal action.