@Halal November/December 2024 | Page 8

@ Halal | November-December . 2024

This , in turn , opens doors to new trade opportunities , partnerships , and market expansion .

How could collaboration among local halal businesses to create a single brand boost their visibility in international markets , especially with the opportunities at this event ? We view MIHAS @ Dubai as a pivotal platform to not only showcase our diverse offerings but also an opportunity to connect with a diverse global market , particularly in the Middle East , and demonstrate our unique cultural and local expertise .

This collaboration strengthens our position , showcasing the quality and authenticity of Malaysian halal products . By pooling our resources , we ’ re able to implement more effective marketing strategies , reach broader networks , and form new partnerships worldwide .

A unified brand not only boosts credibility but also instils confidence in buyers who can rely on an established consortium offering a wide variety of high-quality products .

The economies of scale also give us a competitive edge when it comes to pricing , which is crucial in today ’ s marketplace .

How will the Council measure the impact of MIHAS @ Dubai , and what long-term partnerships or collaborations does it aim to establish , mainly with Middle Eastern traders and investors ? At MIHAS @ Dubai , MPIH , in collaboration with MATRADE and MITI , has set clear performance indicators to measure our participation ’ s success . We focus on the number of Malaysian companies involved and the diversity of their sectors , which shows the industry ’ s broad engagement .

Another key measure is the business deals and partnerships formed during the event , reflecting the commercial success and market opportunities for our companies . We also monitor visitor engagement , including foot traffic at the Malaysian pavilion , to gauge the global appeal of Malaysian halal products .

MATRADE analyses media coverage and public interest , while feedback from participants helps us identify areas for improvement . Export inquiries and new market potential are also crucial to understanding long-term growth opportunities .

These KPIs allow us to refine our strategies and enhance Malaysia ’ s global position in the halal industry .

We ’ re focused on building lasting partnerships with traders and investors in the region , ensuring a steady flow of halal products .

Dato ’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi presents the keynote address .

What is the Council ’ s target for increasing Malaysia ’ s halal exports from RM59.46 billion over the next five years , especially in the Middle East market ? The global growth of the halal industry presents significant untapped opportunities for Malaysia to expand its economy and maintain its leadership position . By developing targeted strategies for key markets , enhancing international cooperation , and increasing global recognition , Malaysia can boost trade and investment . Strengthening relationships with high-demand countries will drive economic growth and expand Malaysia ’ s halal industry .

Additionally , these initiatives will focus on increasing the production of high-value-added halal products , supporting SMEs , and leveraging disruptive technologies -positioning Malaysia as a competitive global player in the halal market .

The export sales target for MIHAS @ Dubai is set at RM1 billion . How do you anticipate each sector ( food and beverage , cosmetics , pharmaceuticals ) contributing to this target ?

The RM1 billion export target for MIHAS @ Dubai reflects our goal to tap into various sectors ’ market potential .

While the food and beverage sector , with the most exhibitors , has traditionally been strong , it may lead to lower sales . However , it remains a key player due to the constant demand for halal-certified products .

We ’ re also seeing promising potential in other sectors , such as franchises , which may generate substantial export opportunities , expanding beyond products into brands and services within the Middle East .

The pharmaceuticals and cosmetics sectors , despite fewer exhibitors , are expected to see significant sales growth due to the rising demand for halal-certified medical products .

As this is MIHAS @ Dubai ’ s debut for us , we remain optimistic and will share the results after the event . –

THE MALAYSIAN Cabinet recently decided to keep halal certification optional for eateries , a move aimed at supporting business flexibility while upholding Malaysia ’ s role as a global halal hub .

The policy is designed to foster an inclusive environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive without the constraints of mandatory certification .

Deputy Prime Minister Dato ’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi , also the Chairman of the Halal Industry Development Council ( MPIH ), underscored the Cabinet ’ s commitment to creating a business-friendly halal ecosystem , stating : “ Our approach allows businesses to grow at their own pace while ensuring halal standards remain accessible for those who seek certification .

“ This balance is vital to strengthening Malaysia ’ s position in the global halal industry .”

AFFORDABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY

This optional status acknowledges the challenges faced by many micro , small , and medium enterprises ( MSMEs ), for whom halal certification can be a significant undertaking .

Zahid explained that while the government encourages halal certification for the added value it brings , it recognises that for some businesses , the focus remains on affordability and accessibility .

“ We want halal certification to be a choice that adds value , not a barrier for small businesses ,” he said .

Data from the Halal Development Corporation ( HDC ) supports the decision , showing that product quality and affordability frequently influence consumer decisions more than halal certification alone .

A recent survey indicated that while 73.4 per cent of Muslim consumers look for halal certification , many place greater emphasis on product quality and price . The findings reflect the broader consumer perspective that a lack of accreditation doesn ’ t imply noncompliance with halal standards but rather an unverified status .

PUBLIC AWARENESS

To encourage more eateries to opt for halal certification , MPIH and agencies like HDC and JAKIM provide resources , training , and certification clinics .

Zahid emphasised the importance of public awareness , adding : “ Our initiatives are not just about certification but about promoting halal values across all sectors .

“ Malaysia ’ s role as a halal leader hinges on creating awareness and ensuring accessibility for all .”

With over 9,485 companies and 253,156 products certified halal , Malaysia continues to solidify its reputation in the global halal market .

By keeping certification optional , MPIH promotes halal practices within a flexible framework , fostering industry growth while preserving consumer trust .