Assessing the Perceptions of Halal Certification among Small and Medium Enterprises in the Food and Beverage Industry in Johor, Malaysia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/umran2025.12n2.726Keywords:
Halal certification; small medium enterprises (SME); food and beverageAbstract
Despite the significant expansion of the Halal food and beverage sector in Malaysia, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face challenges in acquiring Halal certification. This study investigates SME entrepreneurs' perceptions of acquiring Halal certification in the food and beverage industry of northern Johor, Malaysia. A structured survey was conducted with 26 SME entrepreneurs in Muar, Johor, to assess their awareness level regarding their perceptions on Halal certification for their products. The findings reveal a high awareness and inclination toward obtaining Halal certification, with a mean score of 4.81 (standard deviation = 0.694), indicating the importance SME entrepreneurs place on this certification. However, the study also highlights significant challenges faced by these businesses, including documentation management and the associated costs of certification. Participants expressed the need for systematic document management to save costs and time, as well as a requirement for guidance throughout the application process. This study provides insights into the perceptions and challenges SME entrepreneurs face in the Halal certification process and establishes a foundation for future research into the broader business significance of Halal certification. The findings underscore the necessity for policymakers and industry stakeholders to develop targeted support mechanisms to address these challenges, thereby enhancing SME competitiveness and consumer confidence in Halal-certified products. By understanding these perceptions and barriers, the study aims to contribute to more effective strategies for promoting Halal certification among SMEs, ultimately supporting the growth and sustainability of the Halal food and beverage sector in Malaysia.
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