Kuala Lampur:The government is considering proposals aimed at boosting Bumiputera participation in the halal industry, focusing on Muslims. These proposals include additional funding allocations and enhanced tax incentives.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Marhamah Rosli, stated that the review will also explore increasing the use of skilled workers and technology within the industry. She expressed the government's commitment to ensuring greater participation by Muslim Bumiputeras both domestically and internationally.

Marhamah made these remarks during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat, addressing a supplementary question from Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (PN-Pagoh). He suggested measures to raise Muslim Bumiputera participation internationally from six percent to 20 percent within the next five years.

Significant growth in Bumiputera participation was noted, with Malaysia Halal Certification holders increasing from 2,190 in 2024 to 2,527 in 2025. In 2026, from January to September, 740 new Bumiputera certificate holders were recorded.

Data from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) as of September 30 shows active Halal Certification holders consist of 38.83 percent Bumiputera-owned, 57.96 percent non-Bumiputera-owned, and 3.21 percent foreign-owned businesses. The government aims to strengthen Bumiputera involvement in high-value segments such as raw materials, manufacturing, and high-value-added halal products.

Through JAKIM, the government supports small-scale Bumiputera entrepreneurs via the Halal Cottage Scheme, encouraging their participation in the halal ecosystem. This initiative helps cottage industry operators secure halal certification and aligns with the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030, led by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry. The plan includes developing Bumiputera small businesses through performance-based programs to expand their operations and income.