Halal market can be used to rally Muslims

KUALA LUMPUR: Companies and governments promoting the halal market could use it as a rallying point as well as a unifying call for Muslims to act in accordance with Islam and consume only what the religion allows.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said with the global halal market moving at a rapid pace, there must be a more concerted effort to tap the lucrative market.

This would demonstrate a greater solidarity among Muslims, he said in a speech read out by his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak at the opening of the 3rd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas 2006) here yesterday.

The event brings together more than 350 companies from 19 countries and incorporates more than 450 booths.

“The halal concept can be applied universally as it involves the consumption of clean, healthy, safe and high-quality products and services,” the prime minister told participants.

“My Government is committed towards achieving greater awareness of the global halal industry and towards ensuring the continuous development of a halal marketplace in Malaysia and throughout the world.”

Abdullah said Malaysia was setting up the Halal Industry Development Corporation to be a key driver and coordinator of halal related initiatives, and added that the relevant ministries and agencies would continue to step up efforts to develop the halal marketplace by covering all aspects of the industry.

“These include halal standards, audit and certification, education and training, industry development, promotion, branding, and market access.

“With this, the Government aims to establish Malaysia as a global hub for the production and distribution of halal goods and services,” he added.

The prime minister said opportunities in the halal marketplace were abundant as it encompassed the entire value chain – from production and manufacturing to shipping, logistics, export and retail.

“Even branding and advertising could be geared towards spurring downstream business opportunities,” he added.

URL: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/5/11/nation/14214562&sec=nation