By Fachri Mirza
GOMBAK, 23 February 2018: A talk session intended to raise Muslim awareness on halal products was held here in Gombak campus on Monday (19 February).
The talk which was part of Forum Tarbiyah (FOTAR) was hosted by IIUM’s Director of International Institute for Halal Research and Training (INHART), Prof. Irwandi Jaswir, the winner of King Faisal International Prize 2018.
Among Prof. Irwandi’s achievements was his publication on 120 peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals which received over 60 awards and honours, including Habibie Award from the Indonesian government.
The growth of Muslim population in the world led to the high necessity of research on Halal products.
To help Muslim consumers in detecting halal authentication, Irwandi and his research team have produced a portable device “electronic-nose” for detecting non-halal materials in food, cosmetics and consumer goods to protect the interests of Muslim consumers.
E-Nose is a device that mimics human olfactory system, detecting halal authentication through odour.
“Muslims should be more cautious about the products they used, since many industries are dependent on the porcine components. The use of pig’s gelatin-collagen found in bones, connective tissue, and skin of animal – are found in almost all products like medication, cosmetics, moisturisers,” Prof. Irwandi stated.
“Three main issues found in Halal Products are raw materials, productions, and authentication. And the best way to increase Muslim awareness on those issues is by conducting more conference, seminar, and talks on halal products,” added Prof. Irwandi.
He also mentioned that Malaysia can be a good example for the effort on standardising large companies with minimum two Halal executives to maintain halal Standard.
Halal products are serious matters for Muslims but they also provide good business opportunities for everyone. Many countries have tried to make Halal products to attract Muslim consumers. ***