By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 27: Food premises and hotels in Sarawak without halal certification are prohibited from using the term ‘Ramadan’ in any form of advertisement, emphasised Deputy Minister of Utility Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
In a TVS news report, he stated that the directive, issued through a circular by the Sarawak Islamic Council (SIC), is enforced annually.
“Only premises with halal certification are allowed to offer Ramadan buffets throughout the fasting month.
“Without a halal certificate, they are not only barred from hosting Ramadan buffets but also from advertising or displaying banners using the term,” he said after officiating the SIC 2025 Contribution Presentation Programme and announcing the Zakat Fitrah rate at the Sarawak Islamic Complex Hall today.
Dr Abdul Rahman noted that while most hotels and food establishments in Sarawak comply with the regulation, a small number are still in the process of obtaining halal certification.
To ensure compliance, SIC will conduct regular monitoring.
“So far, there have been no reports of non-compliance.
“If businesses without halal certification wish to offer a Ramadan buffet, our officers will advise them to obtain certification first,” he added.
In a related matter, Dr Abdul Rahman announced that three Ramadan Bazaar locations in Kuching—Satok, Tupong, and Stutong—have been approved and will be regulated by the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and Kuching South City Council (MBKS).
For Ramadan bazaars at other locations, organisers must obtain written approval from local authorities to ensure proper hygiene and waste management. — DayakDaily
