KUALA LUMPUR: The local halal industry should expand its focus beyond food and beverages (F&B) to include a broader array of sectors for global expansion, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that by diversifying, the halal industry could access new markets, especially on an international scale.

"In the halal industry, unfortunately, the focus remains predominantly on the F&B sector. I believe that to achieve international expansion, we must address other critical halal sectors, such as vaccines, which are in high demand in halal form.

"Furthermore, it is also essential to prioritise the sourcing of halal ingredients like lemongrass, galangal and other herbal materials for international cosmetics and other product manufacturing," he said, in response to an additional question from Datuk Adnan Abu Hassan (BN-Kuala Pilah).

Adnan inquired about many companies that have yet to obtain halal certification for their products, even though Malaysian halal certification is recognised internationally.

Zahid said that efforts to source halal ingredients is ongoing, but are currently on a small-scale.

"Therefore, the Malaysian Halal Council is collaborating with state governments and agencies to cultivate and produce ingredients on underutilised land for international market products."

Meanwhile, Zahid said as of this month, a total of 9,146 companies have been granted halal certification by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim).

"Among these, 8,105 are micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs); 3,616 are Bumiputera-owned companies and5,270 non-Bumiputera-owned companies.

"Additionally, 1,041 multinational companies (MNCs) have obtained halal certificates."

Zahid said that while Malaysia's halal certification has undoubtedly achieved global recognition, it does not imply complacency.

"It is crucial for us to do a reassessment to align with current requirements. One critical area for examination is the structure of the halal industry itself, encompassing the halal certification process, halal talent management, National Halal Policy, halal development plan and halal marketing plan.

"In response, stakeholders within the national halal industry will conduct a dedicated workshop aimed at enhancing existing frameworks and strategies in the sector."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1078102/local-halal-industry-should-expand-focus-beyond-fb-sector-zahid