Halal Certification Opens Wider Market for Sukina Tofu

Soy-based brand Sukina has bolstered consumer trust and expanded its market reach following the acquisition of Halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) on September 16, 2023. This certification is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the company's position in the competitive food industry.

“

After obtaining the Halal certificate, customers are more confident in buying our products. It also enhances the company's reputation and opens up wider market opportunities.

Noor Shoriah Mohammad Basir, Manager of NSB Baroqah Enterprise, the company behind Sukina, stated that the Halal certification is more than just an acknowledgment of product status; it acts as a catalyst for business growth. She noted that prior to certification, customers frequently questioned the differences between Sukina products and those already holding Halal and MeSTI certifications. "After obtaining the Halal certificate, customers are more confident in buying our products. It also enhances the company's reputation and opens up wider market opportunities," she said.

The decision to pursue Halal certification was driven by a desire to increase the company's competitiveness in a market dominated by producers with more established distribution networks. Noor Shoriah acknowledged the difficulties in the certification process, including a lack of knowledge regarding application procedures, challenges in sourcing Halal-certified raw materials, and financial constraints for facility upgrades. However, she highlighted the significant assistance provided by MARA and the Department of Agriculture in meeting the required standards.

“

This includes a lack of knowledge about the application process, difficulty in obtaining Halal-certified raw material suppliers, and financial constraints to upgrade premises according to the set standards.

Sukina's journey began in 2012 when Noor Shoriah, living in Qatar, found it difficult to find local-tasting soy products. After attending a tofu-making course in 2013, she started a small home-based business. The brand now offers a variety of soy products, including different types of tofu and tempeh, with plans to introduce a crispy raw tofu. The company has expanded from a home kitchen to a larger facility in Cheng Setia, Melaka, to meet growing demand from grocery stores and food establishments, with aspirations to enter the hospitality sector.

“

However, assistance from MARA and the Department of Agriculture greatly helped us meet the requirements for Halal and MeSTI certification.