The Malaysian Halal Council is spearheading efforts in collaboration with state governments and agencies to identify and repurpose abandoned lands to bolster the country’s halal product manufacturing, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced today.
Highlighting the initiative during the Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Ahmad Zahid emphasized the strategic move aimed at fostering the global growth of the halal industry beyond traditional food and beverage sectors.
“To compete on the international stage, we must diversify into areas such as halal vaccines, and focus on sourcing essential ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and herbal extracts crucial for cosmetics and other products,” Ahmad Zahid stated, underscoring the industry’s expansion into new domains.
As of this month, Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) has issued halal certificates to a total of 9,146 companies, comprising 8,105 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and 1,041 multinational corporations. Ahmad Zahid reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to the 2030 Halal Industry Master Plan (HIMP), designed to elevate Bumiputera companies’ competitiveness and expand their footprint in the halal market.
The Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) is actively facilitating local enterprises through various programs, leveraging digital technologies and fostering innovation in halal products. Ahmad Zahid noted initiatives such as the Malaysia Global Halal Show 2024, involving 153 companies, including Bumiputera firms in sectors ranging from food and beverages to cosmetics and personal care.
Responding to queries on attracting investors, Ahmad Zahid disclosed China’s interest in investing RM5 billion in Malaysia’s halal industry. Plans are underway to allocate these investments into halal industrial parks across states, ensuring widespread economic benefits.
The Malaysian Halal Council’s proactive measures underscore Malaysia’s ambition to lead the global halal market, empowering PMKS, Bumiputera enterprises, rural firms, and young entrepreneurs to thrive in this burgeoning sector.