Growing International Interest in Malaysian Halal Standards

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is experiencing unprecedented international interest, with more than ten foreign halal certification bodies currently undergoing audit processes to secure Malaysian government recognition. Director-General Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee Sirajuddin revealed that applicant organizations represent diverse geographical regions, including certification bodies from China, Russia, and various Balkan nations.

JAKIM’s recognition system operates through formal letters of recognition rather than traditional Memorandum of Understanding agreements, streamlining the approval process for qualified international certification bodies seeking Malaysian endorsement.

Global Halal Summit 2025: A Platform for Industry Collaboration

The announcement coincided with the Global Halal Summit (GHaS) 2025, running from September 24-26, which serves as a comprehensive platform for international halal industry development. The summit encompasses three primary components: the Halal Certification Bodies Convention, International Halal Technical Capacity Development Programme, and the newly introduced Global Halal Talk.

The 15th Halal Certification Bodies Convention, themed “Igniting Excellence, Bridging Halal Worldwide,” brings together both previously recognized halal certification bodies and organizations currently seeking recognition. This gathering facilitates knowledge sharing regarding Malaysia’s initiatives to strengthen halal ecosystems both domestically and internationally.

Strategic Focus on Islamic Cooperation

JAKIM prioritizes collaborative relationships with Organization of Islamic Cooperation halal authorities, ensuring unified approaches to strengthening the global halal industry. This strategic alignment demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to maintaining consistency across Islamic nations while promoting standardized halal practices worldwide.

The summit operates under the overarching theme of “Integrity, Sustainability, and Resilience,” representing a joint initiative between JAKIM and the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry. Implementation involves multiple government agencies including Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, Halal Development Corporation Berhad, and Department of Standards Malaysia.

Comprehensive Industry Engagement

GHaS 2025 convenes diverse stakeholders including industry leaders, policymakers, academics, international halal certification bodies, and consumers, demonstrating collective responsibility for building trusted and innovative halal ecosystems capable of addressing challenges in the dynamic global economy.

The summit continues serving as a primary catalyst for reinforcing Malaysia’s position as the global halal leader and international reference point, supported by recognition as the world’s halal leader for eleven consecutive years according to the 2024 Global Islamic Economy Report.

Extensive International Participation

The current summit features participation from 92 recognized halal certification bodies alongside international delegations representing 47 countries, taking place across Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya venues. This broad participation underscores the global significance of Malaysian halal standards and the widespread interest in accessing Malaysian expertise.

Capacity Development 

The 4th edition of the Halal Certification Bodies Convention and International Halal Technical Capacity Development Programme includes six specialized sessions designed specifically to empower international halal certification bodies. This comprehensive program serves as JAKIM’s strategic platform for disseminating expertise while reinforcing Malaysia’s status as the central hub for the global halal ecosystem.

High-Level Leadership Engagement

A notable addition to this year’s summit is the Global Halal Talk, featuring strategic insights from Malaysia’s top leadership including Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar. This high-level participation demonstrates the Malaysian government’s commitment to halal industry development and international cooperation.

The summit represents Malaysia’s continued efforts to maintain its leadership position in the global halal industry while facilitating knowledge transfer and standardization across international markets, reinforcing the country’s role as the definitive authority on halal certification standards worldwide.

Original Article:

The Sun Malaysia. (2025, September 16). Over ten international halal certification bodies await JAKIM approval. The Sun Malaysia. Retrieved from https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/over-ten-international-halal-certification-bodies-await-jakim-approval-PM14909886