The importance of the halal certification based on Imam Nursi’s concept of frugality

• Main Authors: Perdana, Firdaus Fanny Putera, Muflih, Betania Kartika
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English
• Published: International Institute for Halal research and Training (INHART), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) 2018
• Subjects: H Social Sciences (General)
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/80039/7/80039%20The%20Importance%20of%20The%20Halal%20Certification%20Based%20on%20Imam%20Nursi.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/80039/

The global Halal market has emerged as a new growth sector in the global economy and is creating a strong presence worldwide, both in Islamic and Non-Islamic countries. The world community has now begun to understand the importance of the Muslims requirement for food and other consumption known as Halal, which means permissible by Islamic Law. Muslims are the biggest consumers in this industry, despite many ingredients used are imported from other countries and some of them do not have proper documentation to prove their Halal status. The objectives of this paper are to show the ability of Halal certification to prevent greed and promote frugality as those are in line with Imam Said Nursi’s concept of Frugality in his Qur’anic Exegesis, Risalei Nur. The researchers listed some Halal issues in certain Muslim Majority countries to increase the awareness. The food products that the Muslim consumers need to pay attention to are discussed to ensure that they will be more careful when it comes to their food consumption. Some people struggle for livelihood and thereby make them neglect their religious sentiments. Sometimes, they are forced to consume non-Halal substances for the sake of survival, especially when they are traveling to a non-Muslim country and Halal food is very rare. The frugality concept by Imam Nursi is utilized as a platform to uncover the possible Halal certification benefits for the Muslim consumers when it comes to protecting their Islamic values and Islamic integrity. The adequate presence of Halal certified food is believed to have an impact to ensure that the Muslims have responsible choices in their consumption behavior. The presence of the Halal certification prevents the Muslim consumers from being greedy, helps them control their desire and consume what is needed only. Once all are mastered, humans are expected to be more grateful and more active in seeking the pleasure of Allah.