A new digital platform is poised to revolutionize the halal certification process by streamlining existing systems. According to Khairul Azwan Harun, Chairman of Halal Development Corporation Bhd (HDC), this initiative aims to expedite and simplify the halal certification process, ultimately boosting the export value of Malaysian halal products and increasing the number of companies holding halal certificates. Collaborating with the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and other relevant agencies, HDC is set to create this innovative digital platform, which will seamlessly integrate various applications and systems. It will facilitate every stage of the certification process, from pre-certification to approval and post-certification.
This development comes after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement of the government’s commitment to reduce the processing time for halal certification from 51 days to just 30 days. During the presentation of the 2024 Budget, Prime Minister Anwar highlighted the achievements of the 19th Malaysia International Halal Showcase, where sales of halal products surpassed RM3 billion, exceeding the target by 24%.
Khairul Azwan expressed his confidence in the Prime Minister’s proposal to shorten the approval period to 30 days, believing that this ambitious timeline can be achieved. Jakim chief, Datuk Hakimah Mohd Yusoff, also welcomed the government’s call to expedite Malaysia’s halal certification processing period. To encourage more Bumiputra entrepreneurs to apply for the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM), halal awareness programs will be actively conducted on the ground, providing guidance to entrepreneurs in need.
In a separate announcement, Finance Minister Anwar disclosed a significant allocation of RM1.9 billion for the management and development of Islamic affairs in the coming year. Of note are the plans to build two Islamic educational institutions at a cost of RM220 million each: the Tahfiz Science Integration Secondary School Complex in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, and the Jempol National Religious Secondary School in Negri Sembilan. Anwar emphasized that the goal is to enhance Islamic knowledge education and make it accessible to all Muslims.
Further, Anwar stated that RM150 million will be allocated to Jakim for the maintenance and improvement of infrastructure in Islamic educational institutions, including religious schools, registered lodge institutions, and tahfiz schools. He also emphasized the government’s commitment to organizing religious programs, led by Islamic scholars, throughout the country to enhance Muslims’ understanding and appreciation of religious knowledge.
In recognition of the services and roles played by more than 70,000 religious teachers, Kafa teachers, imams, and other religious posts at the community level, the government has approved a special contribution of RM700, directly benefiting them and totaling over RM500 million. Anwar also announced the reintroduction of a grant of RM20,000 to all Sekolah Agama Rakyat registered under Jakim, aimed at supporting these schools in nurturing a new generation of Muslims with balanced worldly and spiritual knowledge.
This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s dedication to advancing the halal industry and promoting Islamic education and knowledge, a vital component of Malaysia’s socio-economic development and cultural heritage.
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