KUALA LUMPUR – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will lead a special cabinet committee to empower halal certification and industry in Malaysia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this during his speech at the launch of the Global Halal Summit 2023 at Mitec here today.
“Efforts for the halal industry in this country must be coordinated, and there must be cooperation between government agencies, regardless of ministry. All relevant departments must work together to elevate halal certification and the industry in Malaysia,” said Anwar.
“We do get high scores for halal certification, but I want it to be further elevated, not only as an exemplary model for other countries but also in terms of efficiency, quality research, and the ability to give prompt approvals.
“Several world leaders that I met, including those from China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Cambodia, have also discussed the halal industry, focusing on Malaysia… so it’ll be a great loss if we don’t give it special attention.
“Then we can collaborate with China, Japan, Korea, and other countries because they are also looking at the market size, which is approaching RM1 trillion.”
Given that the global halal industry market is expected to reach US$2.4 trillion by 2024, Anwar said that he had asked Zahid and the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) to focus on strengthening certification and trade promotion aspects.
He added that it is important that there is synergy between industrial promotions and certification, as it can create opportunities for small businesses to be highlighted.
“Small companies in rural areas with potential must be highlighted and given the opportunity to establish themselves with the appropriate assistance from Jakim, Matrade, or Mara. This is why coordination is crucial.”
Also present at the event were Zahid, Religious Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. – September 12, 2023