KUALA LUMPUR: The halal industry has evolved over the years, encompassing various aspects beyond just halal food, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He noted that the industry now includes health, cleanliness, efficacy, and modern technology.
"The traditional understanding of halal, which many people have, was simply 'no pork, no alcohol.'
"Today, the halal industry excels with certifications that go beyond what is generally acceptable," he said in his speech at the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas) 2024.
Themed 'Globalising Halal Innovations,' the event is positioned as the leading platform for global halal companies to showcase their most innovative halal products, services, and technologies through 14 clusters.
Mihas 2024 is hosted by the Investment, Trade, and Industry Ministry and organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation.
It runs until Sept 20 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre.
Anwar said the government's efforts to develop the halal industry ecosystem through the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) have led to an increase in the global use of halal certificates.
He noted that during his visits to various countries, leaders frequently discussed halal certification and sought Malaysia's cooperation in the industry.
"Our visits abroad, whether to Asean countries, China, Europe, the Arab world, or recently to Russia, almost always include discussions with leaders who emphasise their requests for Malaysia to provide cooperation not only in terms of halal certification but also in halal-related trade activities," he said.