Kuala lumpur: Malaysia and Indonesia are set to enhance their strategic cooperation in several key sectors, focusing on the halal industry development, trade, rural development, and human capital development. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the initiative following discussions with Raden Datuk Mohammad Iman Hascarya Kusumo, Indonesia's Ambassador to Malaysia, and Dr Ahmad Haikal Hassan, head of Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Organising Body (BPJPH), at the Parliament building.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the discussions highlighted potential areas for cooperation aimed at strengthening the halal ecosystem both regionally and globally. Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi mentioned the proposed establishment of the Malaysia-Indonesia Halal Council (MIHC), the ASEAN Halal Council, and the World Halal Development Council. These bodies are envisioned as platforms for harmonizing halal standards, expanding halal trade and investment, and enhancing international cooperation.

Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also leads the Malaysia Halal Industry Development Council, emphasized that the enduring relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia is expected to drive deeper collaboration. He noted that such efforts will not only create more opportunities for both nations but also contribute to the development of a competitive halal ecosystem on a regional and global scale.