Malaysia halal certified companies' views on Indonesia halal certification and export opportunities

This study explores the perceptions of halal-certified companies in Malaysia towards the Indonesia halal certification system and related export opportunities. Given the strategic roles of Malaysia and Indonesia in the global halal market particularly in the ASEAN region, understanding companies’ perspective is important to strengthen trade relations and certification harmonization. Through a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews with halal companies in Kedah, Malaysia, this study highlights three key areas perceptions Indonesia halal certification, challenges and opportunities in entering the Indonesia halal market, and interest in exporting to Indonesia. Findings show a diversity of view with some companies viewing BPJPH as a legitimate and growing system, but still having concerns regarding regulatory inconsistencies and trust. However, there is strong interest in expanding halal exports to Indonesia, subject to increased transparency, mutual recognition of certification, and closer collaboration between JAKIM and BPJPH, this study contributes to the halal trade literature and offers practical recommendations for halal industry stakeholders in improving their expansion strategies and cross-border certification harmonization.