Banjarmasin Strengthens Halal Product Development Through New Regulation

The Banjarmasin City Government in South Kalimantan has officially established a regional regulation focused on facilitating the development and supervision of safe and halal products. This move is intended to ensure that all processed goods, particularly those originating from micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM), meet halal standards for consumers.

Mayor H Muhammad Yamin HR emphasized the regulation's critical role in guaranteeing product safety and halal integrity within the city. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with and supports the national 'Mandatory Halal October' program scheduled for 2026, which requires all UMKM products to be certified halal. The new regulation specifically mandates enhanced support and training for business owners.

To demonstrate its commitment, the city aims to provide training and assistance to 150 UMKM this year to help them obtain halal certification. This follows last year's success, where 300 IKM (small and medium industries) were assisted in achieving certification from the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJPH). The government is optimistic about exceeding last year's achievements.

Banjarmasin's Department of Cooperatives, Micro Enterprises, and Manpower reports that 59,193 UMKM in the city already possess a Business Identification Number (NIB), indicating significant potential that requires maximum facilitation. City council member Hj Masriyah urged for intensified efforts in certifying UMKM food and beverage products, stressing the local government's role in this process. She also noted that the halal certification and oversight would positively impact Banjarmasin's culinary tourism sector, reinforcing the city's religious identity.