Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher <p>The "Journal of Halal Ethics and Research (JOHER)" is a distinguished academic journal with a primary goal of breaking down the conventional boundaries between knowledge domains and catalyzing the progress of human intellectual endeavors. This journal unites scientific and religious dimensions of Halal research while promoting universal values. While recognizing the significant strides achieved in scientific fields, JOHER firmly believes in the power of referencing an epistemological framework that transcends mere reason and observation, acknowledging the vital role of religion. Therefore, the journal welcomes an extensive range of subject areas, all deeply intertwined with Halal research.</p> <p>JOHER serves as a robust medium for the exchange of ideas and research among scholars, academicians, and practitioners. The journal's scope encompasses a multitude of dimensions, from theoretical examinations of Halal principles to addressing the current challenges faced in their application. The subject areas covered include but are not limited to food and beverages, cosmetics and personal care, pharmaceuticals, modest fashion, media, travel, and hospitality, as well as Halal-related services, which may span both science and technology and non-science and technology domains.</p> en-US Journal of Halal Ethics and Research Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Monetizing Zakātul Fiṭr And Its Contribution to Halal Industry Sustainability https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher/article/view/774 <p><em>Islam exceeds the conventional conception of a program merely focused on spiritual growth and religiosity, rather it espouses an all-inclusive approach that incorporates both spiritual and material realms. Through the provision of ḥalāl wealth, Islam empowers its adherents with tools to harness the glamour of the universe. However, balancing between its traditional and modern approach remains an intricate question among some Muslim scholars, which Monetizing Zakātul Fiṭr (MZF) serves as its classic example. This paper, therefore, aims to study balancing the tradition and modernity of Islamic law through the phenomenon of monetizing Zakātul Fiṭr and its contribution to sustainability of Halal Industry which serves to ameliorate the lives of Muslims globally. The research methods adopted for this work are historical and analytical, for the purposes of studying the historical advent of Halal industry as well as analyzing the opinions of the scholars concerning the phenomenon. The paper reveals that monetizing Zakātul Fiṭr can contribute to sustainability of Halal industry by increasing financial inclusion for socioeconomically challenged individuals and families. The paper concludes that Islam offers a balanced and adaptable framework, integrating the principles of tradition and modernity as it provides Muslims with the flexibility to respond efficiently to changing circumstances. Via recommendation, this paper implores Halal market to expand its focus to incorporate other critical areas where Muslims face major deficits, notably Halal agriculture and livestock, Halal e-commerce, Halal blockchain certification among others across the expanse of Muslim world, including African countries. </em></p> Nurudeen Hanafi Olushola AbdulAzeez AbduLateef Aniyan Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-06-30 2025-06-30 1 1 1 10 10.58932/MULJ0003 Halal Tourism: Navigating Its Definitional and Implementation Obstacles https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher/article/view/778 <p><em>This article delves into the rapidly growing yet intricate domain of Halal tourism, a specialized market designed to cater to the faith-based requirements of Muslim travelers. In spite of its considerable growth potential, fueled by an increasing global Muslim demographic, the sector encounters significant definitional uncertainties and practical challenges in implementation. The foremost definitional issue stems from the absence of a universally recognized interpretation of "Halal tourism" itself, which is frequently confused with "Islamic tourism," along with the lack of standardized guidelines across various cultural contexts. This results in discrepancies in service delivery and confusion for consumers in search of authentic Sharia-compliant experiences.The challenges in implementation are equally significant. A major barrier is the limited number of widely acknowledged Halal certification organizations for tourism services, complicating the ability of businesses to guarantee compliance and for travelers to have confidence in the offerings. Additionally, the restricted availability of comprehensive Halal facilities, including certified food options and prayer amenities in traditional destinations, obstructs market entry. The article further emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced cultural sensitivity and awareness among tourism stakeholders, as well as a deficiency of skilled personnel with expertise in Halal tourism development. Regulatory deficiencies and the difficulty of effectively promoting Halal tourism to wider audiences also hinder its gradual acceptance. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to establish standardized definitions, develop robust certification systems, make strategic investments in Halal-friendly infrastructure, and implement thorough education and training initiatives. Tackling these concerns will unlock the full potential of Halal tourism, promoting inclusive and enriching travel experiences on a global scale.</em></p> Farhat khan Syeda Huma Bukhari Rabia Abeer Fatima Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-06-30 2025-06-30 1 1 11 24 10.58932/MULJ0004 Halal and the Digital Economy: A Research Overview https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher/article/view/773 <p><em>The digital economy, which includes advancements like cryptocurrencies, Crypto Ledgertechnology, and e-commerce platforms, is changing sectors all over the world while bringing moral and religious issues to Muslim customers. Halal compliance in the digital realm encompasses more than just products that are allowed; it also includes Divine Law observance, ethical financial transactions, and open business methods. With an emphasis on the opportunities and challenges they provide, this paper examines important topics such digital currencies, Ethical E-Commerce (in the context of Islamic principles), and digital certification. Crypto Ledgertechnology is revolutionising e-commerce and Halal certification by offering decentralised, irreversible ledgers that solve issues of transparency and trust. Incorporating it can increase consumer confidence, streamline certification processes, and promote global standardisation of Halal operations. Inconsistent certification standards and the speculative nature of cryptocurrencies in Islamic finance remain problems in spite of these advancements. Collaboration between scholars, economists, and engineers is necessary to create a cohesive framework for Halal compliance in the digital economy, ensuring ethical and inclusive growth.</em></p> Rahim Ullah Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-06-30 2025-06-30 1 1 25 30 10.58932/MULJ0005 Muslim Experiences of Halal: Identity, Community, and Practice Today https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher/article/view/777 <p><em>This paper dives into the cultural narratives of halal, emphasizing that it’s not just a religious guideline but a core part of Muslim identity, community building, and the Islamic way of life today. Halal goes beyond just food; it touches various industries like Muslim identity, fashion, tourism, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The idea of halal not only reinforces religious devotion among Muslims but also promotes social unity, especially for those living in countries where Muslims are not the majority, acting as an important symbol of cultural identity. With the rise of globalization, the appetite for halal products and services has surged, leading many global companies to seek halal certification. Yet, differing interpretations among Islamic scholars and a lack of clarity in certification processes pose significant hurdles. This paper looks into these challenges and discusses how the halal system is crucial for fostering social, economic, and religious harmony within Muslim communities. It also sheds light on the changing landscape of halal in today’s society and its promising potential for growth in international markets.</em></p> Shafia Rafique Dr. Rizwana Batool Iqra Butt Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-06-30 2025-06-30 1 1 31 41 10.58932/MULJ0006 Cultural Narratives of Halal: Identity, Community, and Practice Among Muslim Communities in the Modern World https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher/article/view/775 <p class="Urdu" style="text-align: justify; direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed;"><em>This research article investigates the cultural dimensions of Halal, a concept that is deeply embedded in Islamic jurisprudence and extends beyond just dietary restrictions. It examines the various interpretations and practices of Halal among different Muslim communities around the globe, emphasizing the relationship between religious beliefs, cultural norms, and socio-economic factors. The study looks at how Halal goes beyond food consumption to include ethical considerations in finance, business practices, and daily life. It also explores the cultural differences in understanding and applying Halal principles, such as the acceptability of certain practices or products that may be viewed differently in various regions. By analyzing cultural perspectives on Halal, this research aims to enhance our understanding of its importance in modern society. It seeks to address potential misunderstandings and foster interfaith dialogue by emphasizing the common values and principles that underpin Halal concepts.</em></p> Usman Mughees Qazi Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-06-30 2025-06-30 1 1 42 51 10.58932/MULJ0007 Sustainability and Ethics in the Halal Industry https://ojs.mul.edu.pk/index.php/joher/article/view/776 <p><em>Halal industry is based on Islamic principles and ethics, which can be an effective tool for promoting sustainability. This research highlights the aspects of environmental protection wise use of resources and social responsibility in the production and delivery of halal products. Halal industry can be presented as a sustainable model due to the increasing global environmental change and depletion of natural resources in the present era the study highlights the use of sustainable sources ecofriendly packaging and ways to reduce carbon emissions in the halal food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors also transparency in the supply chain protection of labor rights and ethical aspects to maintain consumer confidence are also discussed. The research findings show that by integrating the principles of sustainability with Islamic ethics the halal industry can set a global example. This will not only help in environmental protection but also promote social justice and economic stability. This model of halal industry can play a key role in achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> Zumara Iqbal Taha Javed Rizwana Bibi Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Halal Ethics and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2025-06-30 2025-06-30 1 1 52 73 10.58932/MULJ0008