MUSLIMS are not barred from frequenting renowned local food and beverage (F&B) chain Bungkus Kaw Kaw even though the latter does not possess a valid halal certificate issued by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM).
“It’s not haram so long as there are no elements that are clearly seen as haram,” penned PAS Youth deputy chief Hanif Jamaluddin on his Facebook page.
“But for Muslims, we are strongly encouraged to look for food that is certified halal, especially brands that come from outside (presumably owned by non-Muslims).”
Hanif’s advice came as JAKIM’s Halal Management Division has confirmed that Bungkus Kaw Kaw along with five other F&B outlets/chain are not holders of valid Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) under the F&B premises scheme.
The five other F&B outlets/chain are Johnny’s Restaurant, Black Canyon, Dolly Dim Sum, Ayam Penyet Best and Mr Dakgalbi.
Following constant questioning from its Muslim patrons, Bungkus Kaw Kaw which was founded in 2018 has admitted that “this brand has yet to apply for JAKIM halal certification”.
“However, rest assured that the ingredients supplied by our Central Kitchen to all Bungkus Kaw Kaw outlets are ingredients that have already been certified halal,” the brand pointed out.
“Just for information, Bungkus Kaw Kaw and Ah Cheng Laksa are brands under the same roof. For this year (as of November 2023), we are focusing on the Ah Cheng Laksa brand to apply for halal certification first).
“For the Bungkus Kaw Kaw brand, the application process is scheduled to be implemented in 2024. This is because the halal application process is a step-by-step process that requires us to make thorough preparations first before starting to apply for a halal certificate.” – Sept 3, 2024
Images credit: Bungkus Kaw Kaw/Facebook
