Malaysia: Enhancing Halal Workforce Capability - Key Outcomes of the 2024 Halal Talent Seminar

5 November (Bernama, Malaysia) - The Halal Development Corporation (HDC) of Malaysia successfully held the 2024 Halal Talent Seminar, themed 'Enhancing Future Halal Workforce Capability.' Chaired by YBhg. Datuk Bahria binti Mohd Tamil, Deputy Secretary-General for Investment and Management of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), it gathered about 200 industry leaders, government officials and educational institutions to discuss the important role of talent development in elevating Malaysia's halal ecosystem.

In her keynote speech, YBhg. Datuk Bahria emphasized that Malaysia has the potential to lead the global halal market, and cultivating local talent is a key factor in maintaining excellence in halal standards.

She said: 'We are committed to maintaining excellent halal standards and practices, as reflected in our strategic initiatives such as the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030.' She also emphasized the importance of cultivating a skilled workforce that can adapt to the changing needs of the halal industry.

Datuk Bahria said that the halal industry is a comprehensive ecosystem, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and services. She said: 'At the heart of our thriving halal economy, our most valuable asset is our people.' She called for a collaborative approach to talent development, connecting SMEs with educational institutions and the public sector.

HDC Chairman Khairul Azwan Harun said: 'Today's discussion is crucial, as we aim to enhance our halal workforce. By aligning our education programs with industry needs, we can ensure a steady stream of skilled professionals ready to meet future global challenges.'

The seminar also launched the 'Halal Community of Practice Framework,' aimed at elevating the level of training and certification in the halal industry. The framework aims to promote cooperation between educational institutions and industry players, ensuring that Malaysia continues to lead in halal innovation and practice.

Through in-depth engagement with stakeholders, the framework identified eight (8) key interventions to bridge training gaps and raise the visibility of halal careers.

Azwan added: 'By working together, we can turn challenges into opportunities, ensuring that Malaysia not only maintains its leading position in the global halal market, but also continues to define its future.'

HDC looks forward to continuing to fulfill its mission of enhancing halal workforce capability and consolidating Malaysia's reputation as a global halal economy leader.

The Halal Development Corporation (HDC) of Malaysia leads the development of Malaysia's integrated and comprehensive halal ecosystem and infrastructure, positioning Malaysia as the most competitive country leading the global halal industry.

(HDC was established on 18 September 2006 as the central coordinator promoting participation and the growth of industry players that promote the development of Malaysia's halal ecosystem. An agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, it is the world's first government-backed halal industry development company.)