Father of Malaysia’s Halal Industry Leaves a Lasting Legacy

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Malaysia’s former prime minister and a towering figure in the global halal industry, passed away yesterday at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of transformative leadership and progressive values. His family confirmed his death, prompting an outpouring of tributes from leaders and citizens who hailed him as a visionary who reshaped Malaysia’s economy and elevated its standing in the Islamic world.

Known affectionately as “Pak Lah,” Abdullah served as Malaysia’s prime minister from 2003 to 2009, a period marked by bold initiatives that turned halal—a religious obligation for Muslims—into a cornerstone of national and global economic growth. His pioneering efforts earned him the title “Father of Malaysia’s Halal Industry,” a legacy that continues to drive the country’s $40 billion halal sector and its leadership in the $2 trillion global halal market.

Related: MATRADE and HDC Join Forces to Boost the Halal Trade and Industry Ecosystem

A Vision for Halal as Economic Powerhouse

Abdullah’s most enduring contribution was transforming halal from a niche dietary practice into a strategic economic pillar. Recognizing the growing demand for halal products among the world’s 1.9 billion Muslims, he positioned Malaysia as a global benchmark for halal integrity and innovation. His administration strengthened the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), establishing it as the sole authority for halal certification. This move ensured consistency and trust, making Malaysia’s halal logo one of the most recognized and respected worldwide.

In 2006, Abdullah launched the Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC), a game-changer that coordinated policy, investment, and innovation. The HDC introduced the National Halal Masterplan, a roadmap that integrated halal into agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economic strategy, supporting thousands of businesses and jobs.

Abdullah also globalized the halal conversation. He initiated the World Halal Forum in 2006, now known as the World Halal Business Conference (WHBC), a premier platform for dialogue on standards and trade. The forum laid the groundwork for the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), which has grown into one of the world’s largest and most prestigious halal trade events. “He saw halal as more than food—it was a way to unite economies and cultures,” said Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri, a former prime minister, in a statement on X.

Building a Balanced Nation

Beyond halal, Abdullah’s leadership focused on inclusive growth. He introduced the Malaysia Economic Corridor Program, a transformative initiative led by Khazanah Nasional to develop five regional corridors: Iskandar Malaysia in the south, the Northern Corridor Economic Region, the East Coast Economic Region, the Sabah Development Corridor, and the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy. These projects revitalized underdeveloped areas, created jobs, and promoted balanced national growth. Each corridor incorporated halal development through dedicated halal parks and economic zones, amplifying Malaysia’s halal ecosystem.

Abdullah’s policies modernized agriculture, empowered small and medium enterprises, and prioritized food security and rural development. He expanded access to higher education, boosting Malaysia’s global academic reputation, and advanced Islamic finance, making Malaysia a hub for sharia-compliant banking. His emphasis on innovation and sustainability laid the foundation for Malaysia’s economic resilience.

A Global Advocate for Moderation

On the world stage, Abdullah was a voice for moderation and unity. As chairman of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in 2003, he pushed for economic reform, education, and halal collaboration among Muslim nations. He championed interfaith dialogue and South-South cooperation, fostering ties between developing countries. His advocacy for a progressive, inclusive Islam resonated globally, earning him respect as a bridge-builder in a polarized world.

“Abdullah showed us that faith and progress can go hand in hand,” said Dr. Aisha Rahman, a halal industry consultant based in Kuala Lumpur. “His work in halal and Islamic finance didn’t just lift Malaysia—it inspired the entire Muslim world.”

A Legacy That Endures

Abdullah’s passing comes at a time when Malaysia’s halal industry is poised for further growth, projected to contribute significantly to the global halal market’s $3 trillion valuation by 2028. The institutions he built—JAKIM, HDC, WHBC, and MIHAS—continue to thrive, ensuring Malaysia’s leadership in halal governance and innovation.

Social media platforms like X buzzed with tributes, with users sharing memories of Abdullah’s humility and dedication. “Pak Lah made halal a source of pride for Malaysia,” one user wrote. “His legacy lives in every certified product we buy.”

Abdullah’s family has requested privacy during this time of mourning. A state funeral is expected, with details to be announced. As Malaysia reflects on his contributions, his vision of a united, progressive nation rooted in faith and innovation remains a guiding light.

For Muslims worldwide, Abdullah’s work ensures that halal is more than a label—it’s a promise of trust, quality, and shared values. His life’s work reminds us that even in a complex world, one leader’s vision can change the course of a nation and beyond.