ABSTRACT
The fake Halal meat cartel scandal was perhaps one of the most startling events pertaining to Halal in the year 2020. Uncovered in November 2020, the scandal was first revealed to the public when a local Malaysian newspaper reported that the meat cartel had been smuggling non-Halal meat from countries such as China, Brazil, Canada and Ukraine. The initial report linked the smuggled meat with poor quality and even diseased kangaroos and horses. It was reported that upon arrival in Malaysia, these meats were mixed with beef in the warehouses before being labelled as Halal-certified beef. This chapter highlights the chronology of the event and discusses the multiple implications of this scandal to direct and indirect stakeholders. Ways forward in terms of managerial and technological approaches are offered. Multiple managerial countermeasures to ensure Halal integrity are discussed, including strengthening multiple agencies’ collaboration, international counterparts’ collaboration, training in Halal food fraud awareness and risk management, as well as supplier management. Technological approaches mentioned include the application of breakthrough technologies such as blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance value chain transparency, improve food traceability and to inculcate trust in the Halal supply chain.
