halal ramadan buffet
The advisory by Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS) has drawn praise from the public regarding halal certification enforcement.

Eateries warned over ‘Buffet Ramadan’ promos

Restaurants and eateries that do not hold halal certification have been warned against using terms such as “Ramadan Buffet” in their promotions, or risk facing hefty penalties.

The reminder was issued by the Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS) via social media, cautioning that such wording could mislead or deceive Muslim consumers.

Ban applies across all advertising platforms

JHEAINS also listed other terms that non-halal certified establishments are prohibited from using, including “Iftar Set”, “Jom Berbuka Puasa”, and “Muslim Friendly”.

The ban covers all forms of advertising, including radio, television, newspapers, banners, billboards, flyers, and social media platforms.

Halal certification required for Ramadan promotions

JHEAINS stressed that businesses without Malaysian Halal Certification must not use phrases like “Buffet Ramadan” or similar Ramadan-related terms. The warning comes as the fasting month approaches, a period when special iftar sets and buffet promotions become widespread nationwide.

Authorities said the use of such terms by uncertified outlets could create the false impression that food served complies with halal standards.

Fines of up to RM500,000 under Trade Descriptions Act

Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) has likewise issued nationwide reminders, with an infographic circulated on social media in January 2025 listing the same prohibited terms and maximum penalties, reinforcing the seriousness of halal-related advertising compliance.

Source: Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM)

Under Section 29(II) of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Halal) Act 2011, businesses found guilty of misleading consumers may be prosecuted and fined up to RM500,000.

Similar warnings issued in other states

The advisory echoes similar warnings issued in other parts of the country.

Source: Pahang Islamic Religious Department (JAIP)

Last year, JAIP released an advisory that highlighted that hotels, eateries, and any Ramadan buffet organisers are required to have halal certification to promote Ramadan buffet deals.

Source: Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS)

In February 2025, Sarawak’s Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) released a notice listing prohibited terms for establishments without halal certification, including:

  • Buffet Ramadan
  • Iftar Ramadan
  • Jom Iftar
  • Citarasa Ramadan
  • Makanan Orang Islam
  • Jom Berbuka
  • Selera Ramadan
  • Ditanggung Halal
  • Dijamin Halal
  • Juh Sungkei / Sahur
  • Buffet Sungkei
  • Buffet Buka Puasa
  • Set Sungkei
  • Set Ramadan

Penalties in Sarawak can reach up to RM10 million

The Sarawak advisory also highlighted penalties of up to RM500,000 under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, with an additional warning that fines under the Trade Descriptions (Definition of Halal) regulations could reach as high as RM10 million.

Halal certification strictly regulated in Malaysia

Malaysia enforces strict rules on halal certification, with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) acting as the country’s official halal certification authority.

Only businesses that have obtained valid halal certification from JAKIM or relevant state Islamic authorities are permitted to use halal-related terms in their marketing and promotional materials.

Such rigid regulations have put Malaysia on the global stage as a halal hub, ranking #1 in the Global Islamic Economy Index for over a decade with many other Muslim-majority markets recognising Malaysia’s halal certification standards.

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