IKEA Singapore Faces Criticism After Customer Complains About Lack of Halal Options at Alexandra Branch
Singapore - September 5, 2025 – IKEA Singapore is responding to customer concerns after a man posted videos to TikTok (@jay.ishaq.rajoo) expressing disappointment wiht the lack of halal food options at the IKEA Alexandra branch. The customer, identified as Jay, noted the absence of halal choices and highlighted that the menu appeared limited to non-halal items like Pork Cutlet Aglio Olio and Swedish Meatballs containing pork.
Jay contrasted the Alexandra branch with IKEA Tampines, which does offer halal-certified food products, and questioned the inconsistency between locations, particularly given the Muslim population in the Queenstown and Alexandra areas. He stated his concern wasn’t about special treatment, but rather about IKEA’s consideration of Muslim and vegetarian customers.
the TikTok posts sparked a backlash online, with some netizens accusing Jay of attempting to impose his beliefs on others. One Muslim commenter stated, “I am a Muslim and not disturbed or force IKEA to care about Muslims. Don’t make Islam like the whole world must serve us.”
Jay responded with a seven-minute video clarifying he wasn’t seeking special treatment, but questioning IKEA’s consistency. He argued the lack of halal options reflected a potential “ignorance” towards Muslim and vegetarian dietary needs.
IKEA Singapore has since clarified that the Alexandra branch currently does not offer a halal menu. They directed customers seeking halal options to the IKEA Tampines branch, which is fully halal-certified and features dishes such as roasted chicken feet and meat.
“IKEA Tampines accommodates special halal kitchens, serving paths, and facilities needed to prepare for halal food, and offer a variety of dishes,” an IKEA representative stated.
(aqr/adr)
