Diagnosing a Halal Certification System for Cosmetics: The Viable System Model Approach

The global halal cosmetics industry is a lucrative market worth US$ 27.31 billion in 2021, and its value is expected to grow to US$ 54 billion by 2027. However, the overall cosmetics industry is monopolized by multinational companies, and many products have no halal certification, an assurance system for certifying a particular product as permissible and good for Muslims to use. Among Muslim consumers, the level of awareness about halal cosmetics is low in comparison to their awareness of halal food. These low levels of uptake by cosmetics manufacturers and consumer awareness must be addressed, especially since cosmetics are utilized in everyday Muslim life. In addressing these issues, a comprehensive understanding is needed of the halal ecosystem for cosmetics. An initial step in this direction would be to study the system of halal certification for cosmetics. Utilizing the Viable System Model (VSM) as the framework, this study diagnosed the halal certification system for cosmetics in Malaysia. This study gathered data from interviews with representatives from institutions and departments directly involved in the halal certification system. The halal certification system for cosmetics in Malaysia was found to already have established some elements of viability. However, there is neither a dedicated policy for the development of halal cosmetics nor a comprehensive legal framework governing the development of halal cosmetics and its usage. There are also some missing links related to the monitoring function and among the operating units. This understanding paves the way for developing a viable certification system for halal cosmetics in Malaysia and worldwide.