Zahid: Most of Halal-Certified Companies Are Non-Bumiputera

KUALA LUMPUR: Non Bumiputera-owned companies make up the bulk of businesses in Malaysia that have obtained halal certification from the Islamic development department (Jakim), says deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat today, Zahid said as of July 2024, a total of 9,146 companies had obtained halal certification from Jakim, of which 5,270 or 57.6% are non Bumiputera-owned.

“Some 3,616 companies or (about) 39% are Bumiputera-owned companies. 8,105 companies are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while 1,041 multinational companies have obtained halal certification,” he said during Minister’s Question Time.

Zahid was responding to Adnan Abu Hassan’s (BN-Kuala Pilah) question for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the government’s plans to strengthen the halal industry for SMEs, Bumiputera companies, companies in rural areas, and young entrepreneurs.

He said as part of the government’s efforts to boost the involvement of Bumiputera-owned companies in the halal industry, the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030 has outlined a core strategy focused on encouraging their increased competitiveness.

“Halal Development Corp has carried out various efforts, including development programmes involving local companies.

“Through this platform, Bumiputera companies will have the opportunity to venture into the halal sector, which has high potential to strengthen the supply chain and adapt to digital technology and the commercialisation of innovative products,” he said.

Source: FMT