F&N Holdings’ regional halal handbook to harmonise halal practices, strengthen assurance

KUALA LUMPUR: Fraser & Neave (F&N) Holdings Bhd recently launched the F&N Group Regional Halal Handbook to strengthen and harmonise halal practices across the group’s regional operations.

Launched at the World Halal Business Conference 2026 on Sept 24, the handbook was developed by F&N Holdings Bhd’s Halal Affairs Department in collaboration with Halal Development Corporation (HDC) Berhad.

“Consumers see the halal mark on a product, but confidence depends on consistent practices across the value chain, from sourcing and production to storage and distribution,” said HDC chief commercial officer Mohd Zamulud Awang Kechik.

“The Regional Halal Handbook brings key requirements into a common reference, supporting consistency and accountability among F&N teams and partners.”

The handbook brings together key principles and requirements from recognised halal authorities, including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) and the Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT), alongside relevant international standards.

“It provides practical guidance on halal governance, documentation, traceability, training and internal audits, serving as a common reference for employees and business partners involved in safeguarding halal integrity,” F&N Holdings said in a statement.

“F&N Holdings also provides halal awareness and training to its international teams, supporting consistent practices across its overseas operations.”

Beyond manufacturing, the group’s halal assurance measures extend across its supply chain, covering raw material suppliers, transporters, storage and distribution partners.

“These are supported by regular monitoring, audits and traceability measures to minimise non-compliance and cross-contamination risks.

“This approach reflects the principles of Halal Toyyiban, which encompass not only permissible ingredients and processes but also hygiene, safety and quality throughout the product journey.”

The handbook builds on F&N’s formal halal certification journey, which began in 2004. To date, all F&N Holdings products and manufacturing facilities are halal-certified.

“For F&N, halal is not simply a certification requirement; it is a responsibility embedded across our operations and supply chain,” said F&N chief executive officer-designate Tarang Gupta.

“The handbook brings our commitment together in one common framework, giving our teams a clear reference for halal requirements across the value chain.”

F&N Holdings said it also supported the development of industry talent through internship and graduate development programmes, alongside continued investment in halal-related research, certification and training.