Seize opportunities to develop halal industry, entrepreneurs told

 Deputy economy minister Shahar Abdullah says RM28.8 million has been allocated under the 13th Malaysia Plan for projects to develop the industry.

Deputy economy minister Shahar Abdullah said the approved projects are focused on developing halal technology and facilitating certification.

PETALING JAYA:

 A total of RM28.8 million has been allocated under the first rolling plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan for projects and programmes to develop the halal industry, says deputy economy minister Shahar Abdullah.

He said this year’s allocation was channelled to the entrepreneur development and cooperatives ministry, the Islamic development department (Jakim) and the Halal Development Corporation.

Shahar also said the approved projects, such as the development of Jakim’s MYeHALAL system, are focused on developing halal technology and facilitating certification.

“With the funding provided, halal industry players are expected to build business capacity and contribute to the development of the nation’s halal industry,” Bernama reported him as saying at a summit in Kuantan, Pahang today.

Given Pahang’s potential to strengthen the halal industry due to its strategic location and logistical advantages, Shahar said he hoped industry players would make use of infrastructure such as the East Coast Rail Link, which is expected to be operational next year.

“The facilities are in place, and the industry must be developed as quickly as possible. The economy ministry sees that Pahang has its strengths. However, we need synergy and cannot work in silos.

“We must seize the opportunities available and be aggressive. Don’t let these opportunities for local youth and entrepreneurs go to waste,” he said. - FMT