JAKIM TO USE PIG DNA DETECTOR DURING OPERATIONS

PUTRAJAYA, June 24 (Bernama) -- The Islamic Development Department, Malaysia
(Jakim) will use a pig deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) detector to determine the
halal (permissible in Islam) status of imported and locally produced products.

Its director-general, Wan Mohamad Sheikh Abdul Aziz said the device,
which was created by the Putra University Malaysia's Halal Institute, would
facilitate the authorities in halal operations.

"We welcome new tools that can help facilitate business enforcement and
monitoring. Before this, we had to rely on other departments like the Chemistry
Department to verify the halal status of products during operations.

"The creation of the DNA tool is commendable as it contributes to the halal
integrity not only in Malaysia but also abroad," he said after chairing the
overseas halal certification bodies' meeting in conjunction with the seventh
Malaysia International Halal Certification Showcase here Thursday.

Wan Mohamad said the device, which could detect the DNA of pigs in less than
one hour, was also introduced to halal certification bodies from other
countries.

Twenty-nine halal certification bodies from 23 countries were appointed and
recognised by Jakim to certify the halal status of meat and products.
-- BERNAMA


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