MUIS says it hasn't received application for halal cert from Starbucks, asks them to remove or amend signs

Starbucks has been told by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) to remove or amend signs referring to its transition towards halal certification.

This comes after a sign spotted outside one of its outlets stated that pets will no longer be allowed in both the indoor and outdoor sitting areas from May 25.

This is part of the franchise's transition towards halal-certified operations, the sign had said.

In a media reply to Mothership on May 14, a MUIS spokesperson said that the organisation has not received any application for halal certification from Starbucks.

“MUIS takes a serious view of this matter. Any reference to halal certification status, preparations towards halal certification, or an ongoing halal application process prior to halal certification approval is strictly not permitted.”

The spokesperson added that such representations could "mislead the public and may constitute a breach of MUIS Halal Certification Conditions.”

Starbucks has also been told to stop all unauthorised references to halal certification status or application progress across all public-facing communications and materials.

It has to review and rectify all related public communications, including social media and in-store materials, said MUIS.

The sign, which was put up at its East Coast Park outlet, said:

“From 25 May 2026, pets will no longer be permitted in our indoor and outdoor seating areas. This change is part of our transition toward halal-certified operations. Guide dogs are welcome.”

Sparked debate

After a photo of the Starbucks sign was shared on Facebook on May 11, it quickly caught attention and sparked debate over the move.

The user who made the Facebook post called it "absolutely ridiculous and dumb", pointing out in a comment that "there are a lot of dog owners that go to that outlet specifically because of their dogs".

A day after the Facebook post, Starbucks said that the no-pets rule will no longer happen on May 25.

In response to Mothership's queries, the franchise said that they are currently reviewing certain aspects of their store operations as they explore how best to serve the community.

They will share updates as they become available, they added.

"In the meantime, there are no changes to our current store operations, and pets will continue to be welcome on our premises. We apologise for any confusion caused by our earlier communication and thank our customers for their understanding."