Palestinian Products Gain Halal Access in Malaysia
New certification recognition allows a broader range of Palestinian goods to be sold in the Malaysian market.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Organic Food
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The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) has officially recognized the Palestine Standards Institution as a foreign halal certification body. This move enables Palestinian businesses to export goods including food, beverages, and cosmetics into the Malaysian market.
Why it matters
This recognition streamlines the process for Palestinian companies to enter the Malaysian market by meeting recognized halal standards. It aims to foster stronger commercial links and provide businesses with access to new international trade opportunities.
The recognition of the Palestine Standards Institution marks a new certification approval within the 57 member states of the OIC. Details regarding the operational timeline for the initial export of Palestinian goods remain under development.
The players
Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM)
The Malaysian government agency responsible for overseeing and certifying halal compliance for food, products, and services.
Palestine Standards Institution
The national body in Palestine tasked with setting product standards and quality benchmarks for businesses.
Halal Development Corporation
A Malaysian agency that promotes and coordinates the development of the global halal industry.
Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI)
A business organization that facilitated the engagement process between the involved Palestinian and Malaysian institutions.
The details
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) oversees halal compliance to ensure products adhere to specific religious and quality standards. By recognizing the Palestine Standards Institution, JAKIM allows Palestinian goods to be vetted locally before reaching Malaysia. This integration covers a wide range of goods, including raw materials, personal care items, and pharmaceuticals, ensuring they meet the required halal protocols for sale.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The recognition of the Palestine Standards Institution by JAKIM was formally announced.
Health Landscape
This development marks a significant operational step in advancing the objectives of the Palestine-OIC Single Market Initiative. It reflects a broader trend of aligning halal certification standards across the 57 member states of the OIC to facilitate smoother international trade.
This policy change helps ensure that imported personal care products and food items from Palestine meet established halal certification standards when sold in Malaysia. Consumers who prioritize these specific certifications can look for updated labels on products entering the market in the coming months.
The takeaway
The move by Malaysian authorities simplifies the regulatory pathway for Palestinian businesses to distribute goods abroad. Consumers interested in halal-certified goods should continue to verify labels for recognized certification marks during their regular shopping routine.
Further reading
For more on the standards governing global food imports, visit our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Star.
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