Penang: Malaysia continues to fortify its position as a global leader in the halal industry, boasting a certification system recognised by over 50 countries. The nation has maintained its top ranking in the Global Islamic Economy Indicator for several years. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted Malaysia's comprehensive approach, which extends beyond issuing halal certificates to include the entire value chain, such as production, distribution, and marketing on a global scale.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Ahmad Zahid stated that Malaysia has been at the forefront of issuing halal certificates for 51 years. No other country, whether Islamic or non-Islamic, has its halal certification recognised by as many nations as Malaysia. He made these remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Perda Halal Park Industrial Development Project at Perda Food Park. He noted that these initiatives set an international benchmark for developing a thorough halal ecosystem encompassing industry expansion and distribution to both domestic and international markets.
The event was attended by notable figures including 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, also serving as Minister of Rural and Regional Development, commended the proactive steps taken by the Penang State Government in establishing the first State Halal Industry Development Council. He described it as a clear commitment to sector advancement.
He urged other states, particularly those governed by the opposition, to establish their own halal industrial parks. He challenged these states to scale their halal industries larger than Penang's, noting that Penang has been proactive in developing its halal industry.
Regarding the Perda Halal Park Industrial Development Project, he praised the completion of the project's second phase and announced plans for a third phase that includes building a bridge to improve connectivity within the industrial area. As the National Halal Council chairman, Ahmad Zahid indicated that the government, through the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), will continue facilitating connections between entrepreneurs and government-linked companies (GLCs), local and international supermarkets, and global marketing platforms.
He assured that products from the Perda Halal Park Industry will be backed in their international market penetration efforts through digital trade platforms and international exhibitions like the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS). He also stressed the importance of using technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain systems to improve quality standards and transparency in the halal supply chain.
The RM33 million Phase Two of the Perda Halal Park Industry is envisioned as a comprehensive business ecosystem. The development includes 22 single-storey terraced industrial units for manufacturing halal products, alongside supportive facilities such as an administrative office, surau, multipurpose hall, toilets, and a food complex with five stalls.