Halal Certification Mandatory by 18 October: Perspectives from Padang Restaurant and Warteg Owners Without Certification
The implementation of mandatory halal certification on 18 October 2026 is drawing closer. Consequently, several food business operators in Jakarta have begun efforts to comply with these regulations. One such example is the Uda Denai Padang Restaurant on Jalan Bukit Duri Tanjakan, Jakarta, which reported that although they have applied for halal certification, the process is not yet fully complete.
Ria Vitasari, the owner of Rumah Makan Padang Uda Denal, stated that she is aware of the halal certification requirement and has previously initiated the application process. According to her, the process began with submitting business-related documents through the local neighbourhood association (RT) before proceeding with the halal certification application.
Ria noted that the application for halal certification was submitted approximately two years ago. However, to date, the certification process has not been finalised for all ingredients and products used in her restaurant. “I applied previously, but there are still certain elements, such as meat from the market, that we cannot yet verify,” said Ria.
She explained that certain products, such as coffee drinks, have already undergone the certification process. Meanwhile, ingredients like meat remain part of the unverified portion of the certification process.
“For one part, we applied for the necessary permits, but it hasn’t been finalised yet. However, we did manage to get certification for drinks like coffee, but the meat products are still pending,” Ria added.
According to Ria, one of the primary issues faced during the certification process relates to raw meat ingredients purchased from traditional markets. This situation makes it difficult for the restaurant to ensure that all ingredients used meet the necessary requirements for the halal certification process.
Despite being aware of the halal certification mandate, Ria admitted that she has not received any direct socialisation or official briefings regarding the certification process. She also lacks specific information regarding the details of the halal certification obligation that will come into effect in October 2026 for products within the mandatory scope.