BUKIT MERTAJAM: Malaysia must expand its halal industry beyond the certification aspect, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister noted that the industry has enormous potential, with the global halal trade value reaching billions of dollars.
"The halal industry is not just limited to the slaughtering of animals but also extends to the manufacturing and cosmetics sectors, among others.
"We must seriously consider how we can elevate the halal industry so that we can become the hub of halal industry activities, including comprehensive Islamic financing according to the objectives of Maqasid Syariah," he said in his speech at the launch of the Penang International Halal Expo on Saturday (Dec 7).
In relation to this matter, Anwar said that the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (Jakim) must collaborate with other government agencies, such as the Halal Development Corporation, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), to ensure a more complete and solid understanding of this industry, especially among small and medium enterprises. – Bernama
