@ Halal | January-February . 2025

BY ZAFIRAH ZAFRUDDIN

“ We collaborate with associations such as the Indonesian Trade Promotion Centre ( ITPC ) and more ,” said the PT . Wahyu Promo Citra Project Director and HIITS Event Organiser , Satrio Sukur .

These partnerships serve to support Indonesian businesses in accessing global markets , particularly in Australia , which has become a key focus for exporters . This was noted in a HIITS Corner panel session that highlighted Indonesia ’ s potential for exporting halal products and services to Australia .

The session accommodated both in-person and virtual participants , thereby showcasing HIITS ’ presence beyond geographical limitations .

Joining the session online , the Indonesian Trade Attache in Canberra Agung Haris Setiawan , pointed out the considerable opportunities available in the Australian halal market . He particularly stressed the adoption of the Indonesian Halal Protocol in the region , which can help streamline exports for Indonesian companies .

Indonesia ’ s standardised halal certification system , including the Indonesian Halal Protocol , offers an advantage for businesses . This consistency across various markets , from Australia to Saudi Arabia and beyond , simplifies compliance for Indonesian exporters . This is particularly relevant for the Australian market , given the growing influence of Indonesian halal cuisine there .

“ Indonesian restaurants are well-known for their halal offerings . We are working closely with the Indonesian Culinary Association of Victoria ( ICAV ), which represents over 60 Indonesian restaurants in the state ,” stated Agung Haris .

ICAV won the Primaduta Award , the highest honour awarded in Indonesia for excellence in supporting local businesses abroad . This award recognises ICAV ’ s role in supporting and pro-

Streamlined certification and cultural ties pave the way for increased exports

Satrio Sukur moting Indonesian food culture and fostering business growth in the Australian market .

Agung Haris also mentioned a culinary competition held in Yogyakarta , Indonesia , in collaboration with the Indonesian Chef Association ( ICA ). He announced : “ We will bring the winner to Australia to be showcased and promoted at one of the festivals held in the country .”

Besides market opportunities , Agung Haris highlighted a crucial aspect of international trade , which is adhering to international standards . “ All products must have clear labelling with product information and nutritional facts in the appropriate

HIITS hybrid panel session .

language for the target market : English for Anglophone countries , Indonesian for Indonesia , and Arabic for Saudi Arabia .

“ While minor variations might exist , all sectors must comply with these core requirements ,” he explained .

To help businesses navigate the complexities of international trade , Agung Haris highlighted the valuable resources available on the platform : https :// tanya-atdag . au / en / market-intelligence /

This platform utilises artificial intelligence ( AI ) to analyse user queries . In contrast to the broad results typically generated by traditional search engines , the AI delivers responses that are precisely tailored to the user ’ s needs .

UNDER the theme ‘ Unlocking opportunities with Malaysian and Egyptian companies ,’ the HIITS Corner hosted a business matching programme , enabling businesses to explore shared opportunities in various sectors .

Delegates from Egypt and Malaysia showcased their offerings , highlighting their interest in potential collaborations while inviting the interests of other businesses .

“ HIITS facilitate the programme to help small and medium enterprises ( SMEs ) connect with global buyers ,” added PT . Wahyu Promo Citra Project Director and HIITS Event Organiser Satrio Sukur .

In addition to business presentations , the programme included a networking session . This initiative provided additional opportunities for participants to establish strategic partnerships .

OEM PARTNER

Founded in 2010 , Excel Way Worldwide Sdn Bhd has established itself as a leading Original Equipment Manufacturer ( OEM ) in Malaysia . Apart from manufacturing , Excel Way offers services such as branding , rebranding , labelling , and product design to cater to diverse

Shafiee Ahmad Abdullah

Habib Ahmed Elhassany business needs .

Excel Way ’ s halal-certified facility meets strict safety standards : “ Our factory has been certified by Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point ( HACCP ), which is a mandatory requirement in Malaysia . Without this certification , exporting products is not possible .

“ We are also certified under the International Organisation for Standardisation ( ISO ) 22000:2018 ,” said the Excel Way Worldwide Marketing Director Shafiee Ahmad Abdullah .

The company primarily serves the pharmaceutical sector , supplying a wide range of health-related products . This encompasses detox supplements , vitamin C tablets , and collagen drinks . In addition to health and wellness products , Excel Way also offers functional food and beverages ( F & B ), with its signature product , Issaline Coffee .

With a growing export presence in Singapore , Vietnam , and Thailand , Excel Way demonstrates steady regional growth , making it an ideal partner for businesses seeking to enter and grow within the region .

PREMIUM DATES MARKET Egyptian companies , like Pyramisr , recognise the potential of the Indonesian halal market , particularly in terms of dates . Representing Pyramisr , Habib Ahmed Elhassany , who is also the director of PT Elhassany International Group , underlined the significance of dates in Indonesian culture , especially during Ramadan .

This predictable seasonal demand presents a recurring and lucrative opportunity for exporters . He spotlighted the company ’ s focus on premium varieties such as sukkari and medjool dates : “ We want to introduce these dates not only to Indonesia but to all of Asia .”

Pyramisr ’ s innovative offerings , such as its medjool dates infused with Almond flavour , provide a compelling value proposition . While premium products command higher prices , affordability remains a critical factor for Indonesian consumers . Pyramisr demonstrates its understanding of this by offering sukkari dates at a competitive price .

While navigating Indonesia ’ s import regulations can be challenging , the Indonesian Government actively promotes foreign investment . This makes Indonesia a strategic gateway for premium date exporters looking to expand across Southeast Asia and beyond . –