Illustrative photo (Source: CM)

ASEAN establishes Halal Secretariat

The ASEAN region has officially established the ASEAN Halal Secretariat, as reported by Selangor Journal. This initiative aims to drive the development of the Halal industry across the region. The Secretariat will serve as a coordinating body for Halal-related collaboration among ASEAN member states, with a mission to enhance the economic contribution of the Halal sector and foster cooperation in key areas.

The establishment of the ASEAN Halal Secretariat marks a milestone in the growth of the Halal industry in Southeast Asia. It is designed to create a unified, efficient, and cooperative approach among regional economies, fostering the development of Halal businesses. Through its activities, the Secretariat is expected to harmonize Halal certification processes, reduce administrative barriers, and provide businesses with better access to international Halal markets. This aligns with ASEAN’s vision of “One Vision, One Identity, One Community.”

Delegates attended the ASEAN Halal Roundtable Dialogue in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on December 7. (Source: Bernama)

A core function of the ASEAN Halal Secretariat is to standardize Halal certification procedures, ensuring consistency in quality standards and minimizing overlaps in certification processes. According to Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, the Secretariat will act as a catalyst for Halal industry growth at both the national and regional levels. Through this mechanism, Malaysia aims to share best practices in Halal development with its ASEAN partners, thereby contributing to the overall advancement of the Halal industry in the region.

Cited from the Embassy of Vietnam in Brunei Darussalam

Edited by: Hong Quan – Vietnam Halal Certification Authority