As the country’s leading Halaal certifying authority, SANHA has served the community for almost three decades, striving to maintain the highest standards in Halaal certification. This commitment extends beyond ongoing upskilling, training, hosting and participating in various educational outreach programs & seminars. SANHA’s philosophy of employing talented individuals who uphold the highest religious ethics is crucial, as is its embrace of accreditations as a vital element of its operations.
Meaning and Purpose of Accreditation:
Accreditation is a formal third-party validation of an organization’s competence that meets certain standards of quality to perform specific tasks such as Halaal certification. It ensures that the organization meets recognised international standards, demonstrating its commitment to quality, integrity, confidentiality, impartiality and transparency.
Process of Accreditation
The accreditation process involves a thorough assessment of an organization’s systems, procedures and competence of technical, management and Sharia personnel by an independent accrediting body. This includes evaluating the organization’s policies, documentation, facilities, equipment and records as well as conducting on-site audits and witnessing certification activities.
Once achieved, accreditation is not permanent. It is renewed periodically to ensure that the quality of the program is maintained.
Advantages and Benefits of Accreditation
- Global Recognition and market access :With rapid globalization and the promotion of trade, many countries, such as some members amongst the 57 nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), are developing and implementing standards and requirements for Halaal products entering their markets. Accreditation by recognized bodies facilitates access to these markets.
- Differentiation:Today’s Muslim consumer is highly aware of the Islamic dietary imperative, and demand authenticity via independent and reliable Halaal assurance. Accreditation credentials of an organization provide a good measure for differentiation and confidence in the competencies of Halaal certifiers, providing assurance and allowing consumers to make informed choices.
- Improved Quality:Accreditation promotes continuous improvement, driving certifying bodies to review and enhance their systems and processes on an ongoing basis.
- Transparency and Public Scrutiny :Accreditation, coupled with transparency, is upheld by SANHA through open public meetings and mechanisms such as our Impartiality Committee. This transparency allows for public scrutiny and as a mark of assurance, demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in Halaal certification.
- Integrity and Independence :The neutrality and independence of auditors are the backbone of the review process. Under the principle of “Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?” (Who will guard the guards themselves?), one cannot self-audit. Accreditation ensures impartiality, providing vital assurance to consumers and businesses.
SANHA’s Accreditation Milestones:
SANHA was the first Halaal body in Africa to have achieved formal accreditation and currently holds accreditation from renowned international bodies:
- Gulf Accreditation Centre (GAC) – Saudi Arabia
- Emirates International Accreditation Centre (EIAC) – UAE
In addition to formal accreditation, SANHA has achieved official recognition from the following governmental / parastatal agencies:
- Saudi Food & Drug Agency (SFDA) – Saudi Arabia
- Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) – Qatar
- Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) – Malaysia
- Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) – Singapore
- Central Islamic Committee of Thailand (CICOT) – Thailand
- Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Produc Halal (BPJPH) – Indonesia
SANHA’s accreditation milestones serve as a testament to our dedication to uphold the highest Halaal standards, providing assurance to Muslim consumers and establishments alike.
