KUALA LUMPUR: In the wake of a controversial incident involving a ham and cheese sandwich sold at a convenience store chain, Malaysia's Minister of Religious Affairs has promised immediate and stern action against businesses that misuse the halal logo.

The controversy ignited when a student at Universiti Malaya (UM) raised concerns that the ham and cheese sandwich was being sold with a halal logo, despite lacking official certification from the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim). Minister Mohd Na’im Mokhtar labeled this an “egregious offense” and ordered both Jakim and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) to investigate and take legal action against any offenders.

"The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) warns all parties against misusing the halal logo," Na’im emphasized in a statement, reflecting the government’s commitment to maintain public trust and integrity.

The issue first came to light when a TikTok video posted by a student alleged that the halal certification on the product might be fraudulent. The short clip showcased a search on the official Malaysia Halal Status Verification website, which revealed that neither the sandwich nor the supplier had the required halal certification. In response to the uproar, Jakim confirmed that the sandwich sold at KK Super Mart did not have the necessary halal certification, thereby deeming the labeling on the product as deceptive under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011.

In a rapid response, KK Mart temporarily closed two of its outlets on campus to facilitate ongoing investigations. The university stressed its commitment to ensuring compliance with halal standards by verifying suppliers' credentials. The establishment has also become embroiled in past controversies, notably the “Allah sock” debacle last year. This incident saw socks featuring the word "Allah" sold during Ramadan, provoking public outrage and a national outcry for accountability from the store.

As a consequence of the ham and cheese sandwich scandal, KK Mart has suspended its relationship with Shake and Bake Cafe, the supplier responsible for the product. Meanwhile, the convenience store chain is cooperating with authorities as investigations unfold, having also issued legal notice to Shake and Bake Cafe over the misleading certification.

Local sentiment is vocal, with many calling for a boycott of KK Mart until transparency is restored. As the uproar continues, commentators urge that any allegations of wrongdoing should be rigorously investigated without inflaming religious tensions in the society.

As Malaysia grapples with these controversies, public officials are reminding consumers to verify the halal status of food products through the Malaysia Halal Portal or the Verify Halal application, ensuring peace of mind regarding their dietary choices.

This incident serves as a pivotal moment where the Malaysian authorities are being pressed to reinforce the credibility of halal certification and protect consumer rights, thereby ensuring that trust in food labeling practices is upheld.