Jakim's halal recognition will boost bilateral ties, increase export value - Ukraine envoy

By Nabilah Saleh

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 25 (Bernama) -- Recognition of Ukraine halal certificates by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) will boost the growth of existing bilateral trade between Ukraine and Malaysia, says Ukraine Ambassador to Malaysia, Olexander Nechytaylo.

Commenting on the appointment of Kyiv-based LLC Certification Center ‘Halal’ as the Foreign Halal Certification Bodies (FHCB), granted by JAKIM in his Facebook post today, he said this new development also indirectly, gave ‘good news’ for Ukrainian exporters.

“I would like to thank the Government of Malaysia and specifically, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia for this decision.

“We are well aware that JAKIM’s recognition programme is one of the most stringent and sought-after. Therefore, not only it will contribute to further growth of bilateral trade between Ukraine and Malaysia, but also enhance the position of the Ukrainian exporters in other markets,” he told Bernama when asked to comment on his recent Facebook post.

Nechytaylo pointed out as the Ukraine-Malaysia bilateral trade had been growing for the third consecutive year and now approached US$400 million, the recognition was considered great and long-awaited news for Ukrainian exporters. 

“Recognition of Ukrainian Halal certificates by JAKIM creates great opportunity for the Ukrainian agricultural and food processing industries, as well.

“I hope, after Ukrainian chocolate which is readily available on the shelves of major Malaysian supermarkets, local consumers will be able to appreciate a wider variety of Ukrainian products very soon.”

JAKIM’s FHCB recognition and appointment are based on the capability of the foreign halal certification bodies that comply with Malaysia’s procedures & guidelines.

The validity of the Ukrainian certification centre appointment is two years.

-- BERNAMA