Choosing halal products abroad is still a separate task for a Muslim. In addition to the limited availability of halal products, access and information are also not widely distributed. Therefore, before traveling abroad, it is important for every Muslim to prepare themselves so that their halal consumption needs are met and the trip will be more relaxing.
Travelling abroad always offers new and interesting experiences, from tasting local cuisine to exploring different cultures. However, for Muslim travellers, one crucial thing that should not be ignored is ensuring that the products consumed—whether food, drinks, or everyday goods—meet halal standards. Although it sounds simple, this challenge can be pretty complex in countries with small Muslim populations or destinations lacking adequate halal infrastructure.
Fortunately, technological advances and increasing global awareness of the needs of Muslim travellers now make it easier for you to stay calm while travelling. From sophisticated apps to practical guides, there are many ways you can make sure halal products are easily recognizable, even in unexpected places.
So, how do you stay comfortable and calm while travelling? Here are some practical steps and trusted sources to help you enjoy your trip comfortably and safely.
1. Check the Halal Label on Product Packaging
The simplest first step is to check the halal logo on the product packaging. Many countries have official certification bodies that issue halal logos on food or beverage products. For example, in Thailand, the halal logo is from the Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT). In Singapore, the halal logo is issued by the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS).
Before leaving, make sure you recognize the official halal logo in your destination country. This information can be obtained through a simple internet search or by asking the local Muslim community. You can also use these tips to choose imported products that enter Indonesia.
2. Use the Halal Application
Technological advances make it easier for Muslim travellers to recognize halal products through applications. Popular apps like Halal Navi, Scan Halal, or Muslim Pro allow you to scan a product’s barcode to check its halal status. They also often include a list of halal restaurants and places of worship in the destination country. Each app has different features, so it’s a good idea to try a few to find the one that best suits your needs.
3. Research Before You Go
Preparation is key. Before you go, take the time to research the halal conditions in your destination country. Does the country have halal restaurants? Does your hotel have a halal menu?
Several countries have actively promoted halal tourism and offer a variety of Muslim-friendly facilities. For example, Thailand has many halal restaurants in major tourist areas, such as Bangkok and Phuket. Japan has also introduced halal labels on several products and restaurants, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
Other countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates are also known as Muslim-friendly destinations. If you want to be more comfortable while travelling, choosing countries that support halal tourism or are Muslim-friendly can be the best option.
4. Bring Provisions from Indonesia
If you are worried about having difficulty getting halal food abroad, bringing provisions from Indonesia can be a practical solution. This option is helpful, especially when travelling to countries with minimal halal access. Bring snacks, halal instant noodles, or dry side dishes that last a long time to be consumed during the trip.
To check halal products circulating in Indonesia, you can check the LPPOM website www.halalmui.org. However, check the customs regulations of the destination country regarding restrictions on food that can be brought in.
5. Find Restaurants and Hotels that Provide Halal Food
When staying at a hotel, you can ask the hotel staff whether the food served is halal. Don’t hesitate to ask about the ingredients used, especially at breakfast. If the hotel does not provide halal food, you can search for halal restaurants around the hotel through the application or ask the locals.
Some countries have halal restaurants managed by the local Muslim community. You can find this information through websites such as Zabihah.com or using a halal application. These halal restaurants are usually located near mosques or Muslim communities, so you can also meet fellow Muslims and share experiences.
6. Get to Know the Muslim Community in the Destination Country
The Muslim community in the destination country can be a very valuable source of information. Joining online forums or social media groups can help you get recommendations for halal restaurants, mosques, or other Muslim activities. Some communities are even happy to help Muslim travellers navigate halal needs in their country.
7. Learn Some Local Phrases and Optimize Online Translator Applications
Understanding a few simple phrases in the local language, such as “Is this halal?” or “Does this food contain pork?” can be very helpful. This shows your respect for the local culture and makes it easier to communicate with food vendors.
If you are worried about pronunciation and intonation, using an online translator application such as Google Translate can be an option. You can also ask local traders about the composition of food products.
8. Learn Simple Process Technology
With an online translator, it is easy to find the composition of the ingredients in the packaged products you will buy. The presence of animal derivative ingredients such as meat, meat extract, or gelatin can make us more aware of whether the animal was slaughtered by saying basmallah. If you are not sure, then it is better to avoid it.
Finally, keep praying and being grateful during the trip. Remembering your intention to maintain the halalness of food is a form of obedience that needs to be appreciated. Travelling abroad does not have to be an obstacle to maintaining a halal lifestyle.
With thorough preparation, utilization of technology, and the courage to ask questions, you can enjoy a comfortable trip without leaving halal principles. Make this experience an opportunity to learn about new cultures while strengthening relationships with Muslim communities worldwide. (YN/DIL)
* More at https://halalmui.org/jurnal-halal/171/
