Qualitative study on processes, issues and challenges in implementation of islamic obligatory cleansing (Sertu) in halal pharmaceutical industry

Abstract

Islamic obligatory cleansing known as sertu in Malay language is one of the essential elements to ensure the halal integrity of products including in pharmaceuticals [1], [2]. It is an islamic cleansing required to be conducted when tools and equipment in the production facility are contaminated with severe najs (Naj Mughallazah) which are of pork or dog-based contaminant. Islamic law has prescribed the way to cleanse Naj Mughallazah by using one time of clay and clean water suspension followed by six times of rinsing with pure water (mutlaq) [3]. The study on the implementation of sertu cleansing especially in halal pharmaceutical industry is very limited if any [4]. Hence this study was conducted to explore the process, issues, and challenges as well as to discover the success factors in the implementation of sertu cleansing in pharmaceutical facilities from the perspective of sertu providers. This study used the qualitative in-depth interview and purposive sampling technique where participants were selected among sertu providers who have the experience of conducting sertu cleansing in pharmaceutical facilities. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and validated through triangulation with data from a few sources.