Kuala lumpur: The formulation of the National Halal Policy (NHP) is in its final phase and is expected to be completed by May, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof announced. Speaking at the opening of the International Halal Economic Conference (IHEC) 2026, Fadillah highlighted the government's commitment to developing the policy to provide a clearer and more sustainable direction for Malaysia's halal sector.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the policy aims to serve as a strategic guide to building an inclusive, structured, and sustainable halal ecosystem, without undermining existing certification authority under the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and state Islamic religious councils. JAKIM had previously expressed its dedication to strengthening the national halal ecosystem through the National Halal Policy 2025-2035 to maintain Malaysia's status as a global halal leader.
The initiative involves reinforcing standards and enforcement, alongside implementing an Action Plan for 2025-2030 to ensure a more holistic industry development. Fadillah stated that Malaysia would concentrate on three priority areas in the next phase of halal industry development: enhancing certification pathways for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), advancing certification systems and mutual recognition, and reinforcing halal clusters.
'These efforts will enable Malaysia to stand firm as a global halal industry leader with integrity and competitiveness,' he remarked. Fadillah emphasized that the halal industry remains a significant contributor to the economy, accounting for 7.94 percent or RM118.2 billion of gross domestic product (GDP) as of the third quarter of 2025. This growth is supported by an increase in registered halal exporters to 1,525 companies, indicating the sector's strong competitiveness and growth potential.
The government also aims to extend ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation for Malaysian Halal Certification to state Islamic religious councils and departments, following JAKIM's success in obtaining the accreditation in 2019. Fadillah highlighted that Malaysia's globally recognized halal certification system, policy stability, and robust institutional governance provide a strategic advantage. However, he stressed the importance of continued policy leadership, innovation, strategic investment, and stronger cross-border collaboration.
Addressing the IHEC 2026, he described the conference as a crucial platform to discuss and shape the future direction of the halal economy comprehensively and integratively. 'I really hope to be able to share all views, including improving the existing system and how we want to develop the whole value chain or ecosystem related to the halal economy for our country,' he added, noting that feedback from the conference would be shared with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Halal Certification and Industry.