The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) has praised McDonald's Malaysia for instituting a halal cake policy at its business premises, lauding the firm's dedication to halal certification guidelines.

"Jakim views McDonald's policy as a good initiative which highlights the company's high commitment to ensuring the halal certification of all its premises based on the Halal Assurance Management System," said Jakim director-general Othman Mustapha in a statement today.

Jakim also defended McDonald's policy, saying that it is no different from other fast food outlets which do not allow outside food from being brought unto their premises.