Its director-general, Datuk Wan Mohamad Sheikh Abdul Aziz said the device, which was created by the University Putra Malaysia's Halal Institute, would facilitate the authorities in halal operations.

"We welcome new tools that can help facilitate business enforcement and monitoring. Before this, we had to rely on other departments like the Chemistry Department to verify the halal status of products during operations.

"The creation of the DNA tool is commendable as it contributes to the halal integrity not only in Malaysia but also abroad," he said after chairing the overseas halal certification bodies' meeting in conjunction with the seventh Malaysia International Halal Certification Showcase here Thursday.

Wan Mohamad said the device, which could detect the DNA of pigs in less than one hour, was also introduced to halal certification bodies from other countries.

Twenty-nine halal certification bodies from 23 countries were appointed and recognised by Jakim to certify the halal status of meat and products, according to Bernama.com.