A Sociology of Law Perspective on the Regulation of Halal Product Assurance in Indonesia

Abstract

Halal certification plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and permissibility of products for Muslim consumers, particularly in Indonesia, where Muslims form the majority. A crucial component of the halal product assurance system is the presence of halal supervisors, whose primary responsibility is to ensure that production processes align with halal principles. However, in practice especially among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)  the role of halal supervisors is often perceived as a mere administrative formality rather than a substantive part of the production system. This study critically investigates the actual functionality of halal supervisors within MSMEs and explores the social factors that contribute to their ineffective implementation. Employing a Sociology of Law approach, the research aims to connect the normative framework of Law Number 33 of 2014 with the empirical reality of its application in the field. The research adopts a qualitative library-based method, drawing upon legal documents, regulations, scholarly literature, and journal articles. Thematic content analysis is used to uncover patterns in the understanding and operationalization of the halal supervisor’s role in the MSME context.