A Historic Agreement

In a significant development for the halal industry, Malaysia and Indonesia have reached an agreement to mutually recognize each other’s halal certifications. This means that products bearing Malaysia’s Islamic Development Department (Jakim) halal logo can be exported to Indonesia without the need for additional certification processes. This landmark decision was announced by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who described the agreement as a “game changer” for both countries.

Strengthening Ties

During a recent visit to Indonesia, Zahid met with Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Minister, Nasaruddin Umar, who endorsed the agreement. “This collaboration reflects the commitment of industry players in both nations,” Zahid stated, emphasizing the importance of this partnership in enhancing trade and cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia.

A Vision for the Future

Zahid also proposed the establishment of a halal industry forum that would be jointly organized by both countries. This forum aims to facilitate discussions and initiatives at a regional level, further strengthening the halal market in Southeast Asia. Additionally, he called for the creation of an ASEAN Halal Council, which would oversee the issuance of halal certificates across the region, positioning ASEAN as a major player in the global halal market.

Promoting Education and Collaboration

In addition to the halal certification agreement, Zahid and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto discussed ways to promote Malaysian higher education, particularly in technical, engineering, and professional fields. This initiative aims to attract more Indonesian students to study in Malaysia, fostering educational ties and cultural exchange between the two nations.

A New Era of Cooperation

Zahid concluded his three-day official visit to Indonesia with a sense of optimism about the future of bilateral relations. The mutual recognition of halal certifications is expected to streamline trade and enhance cooperation in various sectors, paving the way for a stronger economic partnership between Malaysia and Indonesia. This agreement not only benefits the halal industry but also sets the stage for greater collaboration in education and other fields, marking a new era of cooperation in the region.

Original Article:

Free Malaysia Today. (2025, April 22). Malaysia, Indonesia agree to mutual recognition of halal certifications. https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/04/22/malaysia-indonesia-agree-to-mutual-recognition-of-halal-certifications