Study on Government Agencies’ Initiatives for Halal Compliance and Food Safety in Brunei

Abstract

The global halal industry has grown due to Muslim consumers’ preference for halal-certified goods, requiring comprehensive regulatory frameworks for authenticity and safety. Therefore, Brunei, a Southeast Asian nation, prioritizes halal compliance and food safety to ensure access to halal products and adherence to Shariah. Several related governmental entities, including the Halal Food Control Division (HFCD), Brunei Darussalam Food Authority (BDFA), and the Department of Scientific Services (DSS), oversee these initiatives. Being an Islamic nation, Brunei places a high priority on halal compliance and food safety to guarantee that its Muslim population has access to halal products and that every food consumed in the nation complies with Shariah requirements. Hence, this study examines the role of governmental bodies in ensuring halal produc integrity and food safety in Brunei. It analyzes HFCD, BDFA, and DSS’s effectiveness in ensuring halal compliance and food safety, providing insights into Brunei’s holistic strategy. For this study, a qualitative research design was used that involved a careful review of prior literature studies and the incorporation of supporting information acquired from dependable sources. It takes a diverse approach to ensuring halal compliance and food safety in Brunei, involving numerous government measures to make sure that goods, services, and procedures comply with Shariah. The functions and accountability of relevant organisations in Brunei that are relevant to halal compliance and food safety are listed in Table 1. HCFD, BDFA, and DSS effectively ensure halal standards compliance and food safety in Brunei Darussalam. HCFD investigates uncertified halal food imports, demonstrating dedication to upholding halal standards. They supervise meat processing operations, promoting halal certification and public awareness. Meanwhile, BDFA is involved in food safety consultation and initiatives, focusing on education and adherence to safe procedures. Whereas, DSS improves food safety through scientific analysis, rigorous laboratory services, and international standards, ensuring reliability and trustworthiness in Brunei Darussalam’s food safety regulations. Collaboration between HCFD, BDFA, and DSS is crucial for upholding halal compliance and food safety measures. Government agencies, including religious affairs, health, trade, and commerce, must work together to ensure comprehensive oversight and implementation. Their achievements in ensuring halal product integrity and food safety include robust regulatory infrastructure, educational projects, and implementing halal certification requirements.