Kota padang: Halagel (M) Sdn Bhd has relaunched the distribution of its products in Kota Padang through a collaboration with Aciak Mart, one of the largest retail chains in West Sumatra. This strategic move marks Halagel’s return to the Indonesian market after halting operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has now shifted its focus from Greater Jakarta to Sumatra, which boasts a population of approximately 60 million people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the launch event was officiated by Malaysian Consul General in Medan, Shahril Nizam Abdul Malek, and attended by Halagel general manager Ahmad Mokhzani Ahmad Rodzi, Aciak Mart founder Amril Amin, and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) representative Nazura Mansor. Shahril Nizam emphasized the potential of the Sumatran market, noting its cultural similarities with Malaysia and urging Malaysian companies to capitalize on partnerships with credible local entities. He also highlighted the strengthening trade relations between Malaysia and West Sumatra, with bilateral trade reaching US$235 million in 2024, bolstered by 22 weekly direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Padang.

Ahmad Mokhzani expressed optimism about the collaboration with Aciak Mart, which he believes will enhance distribution opportunities across West Sumatra’s retail networks. He also revealed plans to expand to other regions, including Yogyakarta and Makassar. Halagel’s products are imported through its subsidiary, PT Halagel Idaman Makmur, established in 2017, and are certified halal by Indonesia’s Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM).

Founded in 1997, Halagel produces gelatin-based products, health supplements, and consumer goods such as toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, cooking salt, and instant coffee. These products are available in major supermarkets like Lotus’s, Aeon Big, Econsave, Mydin, and The Store, and are also exported to countries such as Kazakhstan, China, and the United Arab Emirates.