By Nur Fatin Mohmad Kadenen
KOTA TINGGI, Dec 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s leadership in the global halal ecosystem continues to be strengthened through the World Halal Excellence Awards 2024 (WHEA 2024), further boosting the country’s competitiveness in the rapidly expanding global halal market projected to reach US$5 trillion (US$1 = RM4.10) by 2030.
Organised by Halal Development Corporation Bhd (HDC), the 16th edition of the awards recognised 29 organisations and three individuals for their contributions towards advancing halal standards, innovation and industry development.
The awards, held at the Desaru Convention Centre here last night, were presented by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, witnessed by HDC acting chairman Datuk Azhari Shaari.
Onn Hafiz said hosting this prestigious event in Johor demonstrates the state’s growing role in advancing Malaysia’s halal ecosystem.
He said Johor is strategically located as a key gateway for global halal trade, supported by the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, Pasir Gudang Port, and Senai International Airport, connecting halal markets in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
“WHEA reinforces this strength by showcasing Johor’s commitment to strengthening Halal excellence, driving industry innovation, and enhancing global market connectivity,” he said in his speech at the awards.
Meanwhile, Azhari hopes the recognition from the awards will help companies expand their business beyond the local market into international markets, while also inspiring other halal industry players to strive for the same recognition.
“This recognition adds value to their companies and products, providing them with an advantage in promoting their products and increasing their visibility in both local and global markets,” he said.
Azhari said HDC also ensures that the WHEA’s standards and assessment processes remain transparent, fair and relevant to the rapid developments in today’s halal industry.
He emphasised that the awards not only strengthen the halal ecosystem but also enhance competitiveness, certification integrity, and drive sustainable halal economic growth for the benefit of the industry and the people.
“This year, the inclusion of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) elements in the award judging criteria further underscores how environmental stewardship, social impact, and good governance have become essential pillars of the global halal industry,” he said.
Azhari added that Malaysia will continue to make progress in the halal industry, supported by HDC’s commitment to advancing this agenda, in line with the targets set under the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) and Halal Industry Master Plan (HIMP) 2030.
Hong Leong Islamic Bank Bhd chief executive officer Dafinah Ahmed Hilmi, when met after the event, said that the bank is deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Islamic Financial Services Excellence Award.
“This award validates the strategic vision and hard work of our entire team, who have championed the halal sector as a key growth area for the bank and the nation,” she said.
Jasmine Food Corporation’s head of brand and product development, Farhan Hafetz, said receiving the Digital Platform Excellence Award will further strengthen the company’s commitment to the country’s halal sector.
“Although we are a rice company, halal is not only about how food is slaughtered or prepared. It is comprehensive, especially in maintaining the quality of our products,” he said.
Youth Entrepreneur Excellence Award winner and Muiz Hot Chicken founder Muhamad Muizzudin Remle stated that he hopes to inspire the younger generation.
“I encourage entrepreneurs who are striving to succeed not to give up and to seize opportunities offered, including those provided by the state government, which consistently extends support,” he said.
WHEA 2024 also saw former Johor Mufti Datuk Dr Nooh Gadot receive the Halal Leadership Excellence Award, while the Johor state government received the Halal State Performance Excellence Award.
--BERNAMA
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