Malaysia Strengthens Global Halal Leadership, Certification Recognised In Over 50 Countries - Ahmad Zahid

TASEK GELUGOR, April 7 (Bernama) – Malaysia continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in the halal industry with a certification system recognised by more than 50 countries, while maintaining its top ranking in the Global Islamic Economy Indicator for several years.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the country’s strength lies not only in issuing halal certificates, but also encompasses the entire value chain, including production, distribution, and marketing at the global level.

“Malaysia is a leader in issuing halal certificates. This year marks the 51st year of halal certification. No other Islamic or non-Islamic country issues halal certificates recognised by as many nations as Malaysia,” he said at the groundbreaking for Perda Halal Park Industrial Development Project at Perda Food Park here today.

He emphasised that these efforts set an international benchmark in developing a comprehensive halal ecosystem, including industry expansion and distribution to domestic and international markets.

Also present were Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang, Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, and Penang Regional Development Authority (Perda) chairman Datuk Dr Shaik Hussein Mydin.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Minister of Rural and Regional Development, praised the Penang State Government’s proactive move in establishing the first State Halal Industry Development Council, describing it as a strong commitment to developing the sector.

In this regard, the Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman urged other states, particularly those governed by the opposition, to develop their own halal industrial parks.

“Even a state like Penang has developed its halal industry earlier than others, so we challenge those states (under the opposition) to develop halal industries on a larger scale than Penang, if possible,” he said.

On the Perda Halal Park Industrial Development Project, he said the second phase of the project is a commendable achievement and will be further expanded through plans for a third phase, including the construction of a bridge to enhance connectivity within the industrial area.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also National Halal Council chairman, said the government, through the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), will continue to link entrepreneurs with government-linked companies (GLCs), local and international supermarkets, as well as global marketing platforms.

“Every product produced at the Perda Halal Park Industry will be supported in penetrating international markets through digital trade platforms and international exhibitions such as the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS),” he said.

He also emphasised the use of technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain systems to enhance quality standards and transparency in the halal supply chain.

With an allocation of RM33 million, Phase Two of the Perda Halal Park Industry is designed as a comprehensive business ecosystem.

The project includes the construction of 22 single-storey terraced industrial units that will serve as the backbone for entrepreneurs’ halal product manufacturing, as well as inclusive supporting facilities, including an administrative office, surau, multipurpose hall, toilets, and a food complex with five stalls.

– BERNAMA