Kuala Lumpur: Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s vision of transforming the halal industry into a significant component of national economic growth has been pivotal in establishing Malaysia as a leader in the global halal industry, stated the Halal Development Corporation (HDC).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, HDC’s chairman, Khairul Azwan Harun, highlighted that the fifth prime minister, affectionately known as Pak Lah, was instrumental in proposing and initiating the establishment of HDC in 2006. He played a crucial role in advancing Malaysia’s position in the halal industry. Khairul expressed heartfelt condolences from all board members, management, and staff of HDC to Abdullah’s family, acknowledging his significant contributions to the development of the nation’s halal economy. Abdullah passed away at the age of 85 at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur at 7:10 PM on Monday.

Khairul Azwan reiterated HDC’s commitment to upholding Abdullah’s vision of reinforcing Malaysia’s status as a global halal hub. Established on September 18, 2006, HDC serves as the primary driver of the integrated and comprehensive halal ecosystem and infrastructure. It operates under the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry of Malaysia (MITI).

Abdullah announced the formation of HDC during the World Halal Forum in 2006, creating a dedicated platform for Malaysia to emerge as a leader in the global halal industry by leveraging the country’s strengths, particularly in halal certification.