Kuantan: The First Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) has allocated RM28.8 million for projects and programmes to develop the halal industry, Deputy Minister of Economy Datuk Mohd Shahar Abdullah said. He stated that this year's allocation was channelled to the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), and the Halal Development Corporation (HDC).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the approved projects and programmes include initiatives focusing on the development of halal innovation and technology, facilitation of halal certification, and the strengthening of halal integrity, such as the development of JAKIM's My e-Halal system. Mohd Shahar emphasized that with the funding and financing support provided, halal industry players are expected to build business capacity and contribute to the development of the nation's halal industry.

Mohd Shahar was speaking at the Pahang International East Coast Entrepreneurial Summit (PIECES) held in conjunction with the Malaysia East Coast Trade and Entrepreneur Expo 2026. He highlighted Pahang's great potential to strengthen the halal industry due to its strategic location and logistical advantages. The deputy economy minister hoped that industry players would be ready to utilize logistical infrastructure like the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project, which is expected to be operational next year.

He stressed that the facilities are in place and the industry must be developed quickly. The Ministry of Economy recognizes Pahang's strengths but emphasized the need for synergy and collaboration rather than working in silos. Mohd Shahar urged industry players to seize available opportunities and be aggressive, ensuring these opportunities do not go to waste for local youth and entrepreneurs.