KUALA LUMPUR: Ladang Lekir Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the Perak State Agricultural Development Corporation (Perak SADC), and Leiner Gelatine Sdn Bhd have entered into a joint venture agreement to develop the halal gelatin industry.
This strategic partnership will enable Ladang Lekir to collaborate with the world-renowned producer to increase the consumption and market share of halal gelatin both domestically and internationally.
The goal is to establish Malaysia, and Perak in particular, as a leading player in the global halal gelatin industry.
Ladang Lekir was represented by its chairman Ahmad Yani Aminuddin, while Leiner Gelatine was represented by its managing director Khawaja Ahmed Hassan.
The ceremony took place in conjunction with the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas) 2024, which was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.
The exchange of documents was witnessed by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
Also present was Perak SADC chief executive officer Datuk Yahanis Yahya.
Saarani, who is also the Perak SADC chairman, noted that the global gelatin market was valued at RM15.91 billion last year and is expected to grow at a rate of 6.6 per cent annually until 2028.
However, halal gelatin constitutes only seven per cent of this market.
"With significant global potential, Perak, through Perak SADC, aims to become a major player in this industry," he said in a statement.
Halal gelatin imports into Malaysia have reached 2,800 metric tonnes annually, worth RM130 million, with 30.8 per cent or RM40 million coming from Pakistan.
Gelatin — a natural ingredient derived from animal collagen from sources such as cows, buffalo and fish — is used in various industries.
In the food industry, it acts as a stabilising agent in meat products, a thickening agent in sauces, a frothing agent in dairy products and a softener in baked goods and ice cream.
It is also utilised in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics and photography industries.
Mihas 2024 is hosted by the Investment, Trade, and Industry Ministry and organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation in association with Halal Development Corporation Bhd and the Malaysian Department of Islamic Development.
It runs until Sept 20.
Themed 'Globalising Halal Innovations', Mihas 2024 is positioned as a leading platform for global halal companies to showcase their most innovative halal products, services, and technologies across 14 clusters.
The event covers various sectors beyond halal food, including halal pharmaceuticals, medical devices, finance, modest fashion, personal care and cosmetics, green technologies and Muslim-friendly tourism.
Additionally, Mihas@Dubai will mark its debut on the international stage from Nov 18 to 20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, held in parallel with the Middle East Organic and Natural Product Expo 2024.