KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- Strategic halal industry initiatives under Budget 2027 will be a key catalyst in empowering local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to expand into global markets.
Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) Chairman Prof Dr Mohd Afandi Salleh said support for MSMEs must be coupled with business capability development to ensure local companies not only secure halal certification, but also grow and tap into opportunities in the global value chain.
“Assistance for MSMEs applying for halal certification for the first time is crucial to broadening local participation in the industry. It must be followed by product quality enhancements, brand strengthening, and export market readiness,” he said in a statement today.
Under Budget 2027, the government offers matching grants of up to RM5,000 for MSMEs applying for halal certification for the first time, along with grants of RM25,000 to RM34,000 to support MSMEs in high-potential sectors, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Mohd Afandi said these initiatives can help local businesses strengthen their foundations, boost product competitiveness, and capitalise on growth opportunities in the halal industry.
He said that as an agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), HDC helps develop the industry ecosystem through business capacity building, market access facilitation, business linkages, and enhancing industry competitiveness.
In addition, HDC collaborates with strategic partners such as the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) to expand access for entrepreneurs, particularly Bumiputera entrepreneurs, to training, mentoring, and capacity building that sharpens their business competitiveness, he said.
Mohd Afandi noted that Halal Executive training is essential to developing professional talent, helping companies understand industry requirements and standards, streamline operations, and boost readiness to join wider supply chains.
He added that HDC also helps local halal companies build business readiness, strengthen product branding and packaging, and explore collaborative opportunities with potential buyers and industry partners in international markets through various industry development programmes.
He said developing the halal industry requires an integrated and comprehensive approach that connects government support with the real needs of industry players.
“Our goal is to produce more competitive local halal companies capable of meeting market demand and achieving sustainable growth.
“HDC will continue to work closely with MITI and other stakeholders to strengthen the capabilities of local companies and enhance their participation in the global halal market,” he said.
-- BERNAMA