However, this event signalled a turning point. The event drew attention not only for its formal proceedings but for the sense of collective purpose it generated. Leaders, investors, and community members gathered to witness the start of a programme that could shift Matanog ' s trajectory from a history of instability toward economic opportunity.

The " WOW " in the project, stand for " Woman of War ", symbolising resilience, determination, and community agency in this transformative moment. For many participants, the ceremony and seminar were tangible demonstrations that development was moving from concept to action. Women and youth actively engaged in the sessions, while local businesses explored halal certification opportunities.

PARTICIPATION AND COLLABORATION

The International Institute for Halal Research and Training( INHART) at the International Islamic University Malaysia( IIUM) was honoured to receive an official invitation from the Iranun Development Council( IDC) in the Philippines to participate in this remarkable event.

The IDC, in partnership with the Matanog Development Bangsamoro Incorporated( MDBI), successfully concluded a series of activities at the Marayag Pavilion, Marayag Lake, to support the development of the halal industry within the Iranun Corridor.

The event gathered key officials, including Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua, Governor Datu Tucao O. Mastura, Congresswoman Bai Dimple I. Mastura, and IDC Chairperson Mayor Cahar P. Ibay.

PIONEERING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The WMSEZ-BHP programme stands as a pioneering private economic development initiative in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao( BARMM).

It was created to drive sustainable, inclusive growth through strategic economic zones that strengthen the local

MOHD HAFIDZ MAHAMAD MAIFIAH

YUMI ZUHANIS HAS-YUN HASHIM

WAN SYIBRAH HANISAH WAN SULAIMAN

International Institute

for Halal Research and

Training( INHART)

International Islamic

University Malaysia

( IIUM)

Municipality of

Matanog, Maguindanao

del Norte, Philippines.

On Nov 10 – 11, the WOW

Matanog Special

Economic

Zone – Bangsamoro

Halal Park( WMSEZ-

BHP) Development

Conference and

groundbreaking

ceremony for the

project site took place,

marking a significant

step in the Bangsamoro

community ' s

development.

halal ecosystem. This innovative park is envisioned to attract both domestic and international investments, generate employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth across the region.

Organised by the MDBI, the programme offers a crucial platform for WMSEZ-BHP to highlight its progress while strengthening Bangsamoro ' s halal positioning through its established and emerging economic zones.

By establishing a clear framework for infrastructure, skills development, and market access, WMSEZ-BHP provides the community with a practical pathway to participate in economic activities previously limited.

Day 1: Groundbreaking ceremony and MoU signings The opening session began with speeches by MDBI President Mohammad Zahaire Bansil Guro, and Zohria S. Bansil-Guro, Mayor of the Municipality of Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte. Hon. Abdulraof A. Macacua, Chief Minister of BARMM, officiated the programme, emphasising its significance for regional development.

The programme continued with the groundbreaking ceremony for the " WOW Matanog Special Economic Zone," marking a key milestone in establishing the Bangsamoro Halal Park. This initiative is envisioned to become a key catalyst for the growth of the halal industry, trade expansion, and socio-economic development throughout the region.

The event brought together international and local investors, BARMM officials, and representatives from the provincial government of Maguindanao del Norte, led by Governor Datu Tucao O. Mastura. The Local Government of Matanog, under Mayor Zohria Bansil Guro, warmly welcomed the delegation and reiterated its strong commitment to supporting the initiative.

Figure 1. Groundbreaking ceremony of the WOW-Matanog Special Economic Zone, attended by local leaders, community representatives, and project stakeholders.

Dato ' Jack Yap, co-founder and EVP of MDBI, outlined the initiative ' s development plan, emphasising that now is the time to take decisive action. He highlighted the need for collaborative commitment from both local community members and investors to develop the physical and human capital required to advance the mission.

This was followed by a brief lecture from Atty Sukarno A. Abas, Executive Director of the Bangsamoro Economic Zone Authority( BEZA), who provided further insights into the various incentives, operational frameworks, and regional benefits available to prospective investors.

Figure 2: Guests officiating the groundbreaking gimmick, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the project.

A key activity was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding( MoUs) with local and international partners, including entities from Malaysia and China. INHART, IIUM, proudly signed a MoU with the Iranun Development Council( IDC).

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing halal research, education, and community development, with a special focus on empowering the Iranun community through halalan toyyiban initiatives. Through this MoU, INHART and IDC underscore the commitment to fostering international collaboration and working together to promote knowledge exchange, collaborative projects, and sustainable growth guided by the principles of integrated halal development.