Featured NewsAugust 17, 2023

Harnessing Halal Industry Expertise: Anwar Calls for Malaysia to Seize Opportunities

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (image) highlights the imperative for Malaysia to capitalize on its extensive knowledge in the halal industry, citing the escalating demand for it in various foreign nations owing to its vast potential.

Anwar emphasizes that numerous countries are reaching out to Malaysia for guidance in establishing their own halal industries, attributing this trend to Malaysia’s possession of a world-renowned halal certification body, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim). This observation is based on the enthusiastic interest expressed by foreign leaders during Anwar’s official visits to countries such as Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and China.

The Prime Minister proposes leveraging the synergistic partnership between Jakim and the Halal Development Corporation, advocating for their integration within the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry. He believes that this collaboration will lead to substantial economic growth. Anwar made these remarks while inaugurating the groundbreaking ceremony for Residensi Wilayah, Residensi Prihatin Madani, and the Madani Hawkers Centre in Desa Tasik Sungai Besi on August 17.

Currently, the Corporation aids enterprises and products endorsed with Jakim’s halal certification in promoting their offerings within global markets. Nevertheless, Anwar acknowledges the presence of challenges within the halal industry, particularly the need to address the speed and efficiency of halal certification issuance. While stressing the significance of accurate halal status, Anwar asserts the importance of expediting approval processes. He cautions against allowing meticulous halal certification procedures to impede progress, emphasizing the balance between precision and swiftness.