PurposeThis paper aims to apply the theory of interpersonal behaviour (TIB) and its determinants to determine conventional enterprises' intentions toward halal supply chains (HSCs) adoption in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachA survey was conducted with a judgmental sampling and over 150 responses were gathered. Besides, the literature on the factors that influence an enterprise’s adoption of a halal supply chain, and TIB is evaluated to determine the influential determinants that lead to conventional entrepreneurs’ desire to participate in the halal supply chain in Malaysia.FindingsThe study findings suggest that the intention to use a halal supply chain is determined not only by social factors, affect, facilitating conditions and attitude, but also by the added construct of perceived expected benefits.Research limitations/implicationsConsidering this research to be limited in terms of coverage geographically and the theory rendered the context should be given proper attention when interpreting future outcomes. Furthermore, future researchers can extend the direct relationship by employing habit construct when conducting a longitudinal study.Practical implicationsThis paper serves as a guide to ensure the best planning of halal supply chains in both theory and practice.Originality/valueThis study expands on the use of TIB in the context of conventional enterprises’ intention toward halal supply chains in Malaysia.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-05-2023-0334