November-December . 2024 | @ Halal

MIHAS Awards highlight Malaysia ’ s leadership in halal sustainability

BY ZAFIRAH ZAFRUDDIN

This year ’ s MIHAS Awards spotlighted a significant shift towards sustainability , aligning with the evolving demands of the halal market .

A new category focusing on sustainability was introduced , emphasising MATRADE ’ s dedication to promoting environmentally responsible and socially conscious business practices .

This award highlights companies that have successfully integrated sustainable practices into their operations . It aligns with MATRADE ’ s mission to combat climate change and promote sustainable development in the halal industry .

A distinguished panel of judges from academia and industry selected winners . They were recognised for their commitment to sustainability , market impact , and their adherence to halal standards .

In his remarks , MATRADE Chairman Dato ’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican noted the growing and diversifying halal landscape .

“ The impressive representation from halal lifestyle products and services sectors in this year ’ s awards clearly indicates the dynamism and innovation that drive the halal industry ,” said Reezal .

“ Sectors such as cosmetics , personal care , pharmaceuticals and biotechnology are embracing halal principles and setting new benchmarks in the global market .”

Fourteen awards were presented at the event across three categories : the Product and Services Excellence Award , the Products and

ALLANA GROUP , India ’ s largest halal meat producer and exporter , has been an active participant in the Malaysia International Halal Showcase ( MIHAS ) since its first edition .

Reflecting on their participation over the past two decades , the Allana Group President of International Business Development for the Processed Foods Division , Afzal Aziz , noted : “ MIHAS has greatly assisted us in boosting our image , giving us exposure to halal markets and enhancing our presence in the halal economy .”

Founded in 1865 in Mumbai , the Allana Group began exporting halal meat in 1969 . It has since extended its reach to approximately 70 countries worldwide , with Malaysia becoming one of its key markets in 1983 .

This long-standing presence in the international market is primarily attributed to the increasing global demand for halal products . In response to this demand , the company continually innovates and diversifies its offerings .

Recent product innovations include options like shabu-shabu meat , rib cuts , and modern retail packs . All of these are

Services Innovative Award and the Sustainability Award .

Among the notable winners , Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn Bhd won the Product Excellence Award for its halal pet food , PowerCat . At the same time , HYT Cross Border secured the Services Excellence Award for its e-commerce solutions .

In the halal food segment , Callabio Manufacturing Sdn Bhd was recognised for its halal-certified syrups under the brand Baristar .

The Innovative Award went to World Prominence Sdn Bhd for its Sudee brand dry pastes , while AFM Fulfilment ( M ) Sdn Bhd received the Services Innovation Award for its advanced one-stop solution for e-commerce fulfilment .

varieties that were previously unavailable in halal markets . This commitment to innovation has also positioned Allana Group as the world ’ s largest producer of halal bovine meat .

In addition to its primary offerings , the company manufactures by-products such as halal gel bones , which are crucial for gelatine production . This enables Allana Group to contribute to the pharmaceutical supply chain by providing halal-compliant ingredients .

Allana Group ’ s approach to its halal meat production is deeply rooted in sustainability . The company believes that this starts with the responsible care of animals at every stage .

To uphold these standards , Allana Group forms partnerships with international organisations like the World Organisation for Animal Health ( WOAH ), formerly the Office International des Epizooties ( OIE ). This partnership facilitates the implementation of modern , ethical practices , particularly in animal transportation and care .

“ We prioritise ethical practices and sustainability . Our plants are highly environmentally sustainable . In India , we

Winners of the 11th edition of MIHAS .

refer to this as a ‘ green operation ’, where we make sure to utilise every part of the animal .

“ In fact , all our facilities operate on a zero-discharge basis . The water used in our processes is recycled and repurposed for gardening and cleaning the outside areas of the abattoir .”

Additionally , the group maximises resource efficiency by repurposing waste materials in innovative ways . For instance , the ingesta found in the animal ’ s stomach during slaughter will be dried and converted into biofuel .

Furthermore , the company filters

The Sustainability Award was given to B-Crobes Marketing Sdn Bhd for its researchdriven approach to improving gut health and managing non-communicable diseases through sustainable innovation .

MATRADE ’ s strategic focus on sustainability and sectoral diversity aligns with the National Halal Industry Master Plan , positioning Malaysia as a global leader in halal innovation . This commitment is reflected in the diverse halal clusters showcased at MIHAS .

“ The broad range of products and services , combined with a strong commitment to sustainability practices , will drive the growth of the global halal market , solidifying Malaysia ’ s role as a leader in the global halal industry ,” remarked Reezal .

Afzal Aziz

gasses emitted from their plants using a biofuel filter before releasing them into the environment .

To maintain the integrity of the halal chain , Allana Group actively engages in ongoing improvements and modernisation of its methods . This dedication ultimately safeguards animal welfare and maintains the highest standards in halal production .

The company also hopes to expand its reach into new markets , aiming to grow from its current presence in 70 countries to 100 within the next two to three years . –