The ongoing debate surrounding reports of certain imported American products allegedly lacking halal certification requires a balanced and rational approach, according to Zaitun Rasmin, Head of the Da’wah Sector at the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI). He emphasizes the critical need to incorporate sound business logic into discussions to understand the complexities involved.
As the Chairman of Wahdah Islamiyah, Zaitun Rasmin firmly believes that United States businesses are acutely aware of the distinctive characteristics of the Indonesian market. Given that Indonesia’s population is predominantly Muslim and exhibits a high level of concern for halal-labeled products, it is highly improbable that major producers would disregard the crucial aspect of halal certification when aiming to penetrate this significant market. “I am confident that, from a business perspective, American businessmen and traders fully understand that the majority Muslim society in Indonesia is highly aware and concerned about products bearing the halal label,” he asserted in Jakarta on Tuesday, February 24th. “Therefore, I am certain they would not wish to incur losses by entering this market without proper halal labeling.”
Rasmin further clarified that the issue may not stem from an absence of halal certification at the product’s origin. Instead, the challenge often lies in administrative procedures or the formal recognition (equivalence) of foreign halal certification bodies by their Indonesian counterparts. This recognition gap can inadvertently create confusion and obstacles for goods that may already meet global halal standards.
Consequently, he strongly urges the government and relevant authorities to accelerate the process of recognizing credible foreign halal certification bodies. This expedited recognition is vital to prevent redundant certifications, which can paradoxically hinder the smooth flow of international trade and supply chains for halal products entering Indonesia.
Speaking as a leader within the Indonesian Ulema Council, Ustaz Zaitun underscored the importance of adopting a dialogical and regulation-based approach. He stressed that such methods are far more constructive than engaging in speculation, which has the potential to cause widespread public anxiety and misunderstanding. “For me, this is a matter we must clarify (tabayun), as it is profoundly important in Islam. We must not rush to conclusions before clarity is achieved, especially concerning issues that impact the welfare of many people,” Ustaz Zaitun explained. “We are forbidden from making judgments based on news that could bring misfortune to others.”
He concluded by appealing to the public to maintain calm and prioritize official clarification before forming opinions or taking action. This prudent approach allows time for authorities to provide definitive answers, ensuring informed decisions are made regarding imported halal products and their market status.
Summary
Zaitun Rasmin dari Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI) menekankan pendekatan rasional dan berorientasi bisnis terhadap laporan produk impor AS yang diduga tidak memiliki sertifikasi halal. Beliau yakin bahwa pengusaha AS sangat memahami pasar Indonesia yang mayoritas Muslim dan peduli terhadap produk berlabel halal, sehingga tidak akan mengabaikan sertifikasi halal untuk menghindari kerugian.
Rasmin mengklarifikasi bahwa masalahnya mungkin bukan pada tidak adanya sertifikasi halal di negara asal, melainkan pada prosedur administratif atau pengakuan formal (ekuivalensi) lembaga sertifikasi halal asing oleh pihak Indonesia. Oleh karena itu, ia mendesak pemerintah untuk mempercepat pengakuan lembaga sertifikasi halal asing yang kredibel guna mencegah sertifikasi berulang dan hambatan perdagangan. Beliau juga menyerukan pendekatan dialogis dan berbasis regulasi, serta meminta masyarakat untuk tetap tenang dan menunggu klarifikasi resmi.