Melaka, 29 October 2024 – The Halal Development Corporation Berhad’s (HDC) World Halal Excellence Awards 2023 (WHEA 2023), now in its 15^th year, strongly complements Malaysia’s established Halal industry ecosystem, while placing Malaysia in a strong position to reap the opportunities of the global halal market, estimated to reach USD5 trillion[1] in value by 2030.

The WHEA 2023 recognized thirty (30) organizations and a distinguished individual for their exceptional contributions to the halal industry. Held as part of HDC’s World Halal Business Conference (WHBC), this annual awards ceremony aims to celebrate and honour significant achievements by halal industry players, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a global leader in the USD3 trillion halal market. Since its inception in 2009, HDC has awarded over 250 recognitions to individuals, organizations, and companies.

The awards were presented by the Chief Minister of Melaka, YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh, accompanied by the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Y.B. Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

“This year, we are celebrating the ‘Visit Melaka Year 2024,’ an initiative aimed at showcasing our state’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and dynamic business environment. The World Halal Excellence Awards 2023 aligns perfectly with this initiative, highlighting Melaka’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the halal sector,” stated Ab Rauf.

In his remarks, Tengku Zafrul highlighted the critical importance of a robust Halal ecosystem, which was also recognised by the progressive measures under Budget 2025. In noting that halal exports surged to an impressive RM54 billion in 2023, he also said, “MITI and its agencies have actively expanded the Halal market for our exporters, for example, by securing potential trade deals worth RM2.65 billion from Pakistan, and exploring potential collaboration with Canada, with its C$1-billion Halal market, and 1.15 million Muslims. Our efforts on strategic cooperation, as well as industrial reform agenda have positioned Malaysia on a strong footing to meet the demand for halal products and services globally. We will continue to build on our strengths, while tracking closely the KPIs set out in the NIMP2030 and HIMP2030 to build a sustainable, resilient Halal industry for Malaysia, especially for our SMEs and our people.”

The top two categories include the Halal State Performance Excellence Award and the Halal Leadership Excellence Award.

Other award categories are Islamic Financial Excellence, Halal Prominent Brand Excellence, Halal Entrepreneur SME Excellence, Halal Logistics Excellence, Halal Technology & Innovation Excellence, Muslim-Friendly Healthcare Excellence, Halal International Business Excellence, Halal Pharmaceutical Excellence and Halal Franchise Excellence Award.

This year, WHEA introduced new categories to Halal Gourmet Food & Beverages Excellence, Muslim-Friendly Tourism Excellence, Islamic Content Creation, Halal Cosmetics Excellence, Halal Digital Platform Excellence, Halal International Relations, Women Entrepreneur Excellence, Youth Entrepreneur Excellence and Halal Industrial Park Excellence.

Leading the list was YBhg. Datin Paduka Hajah Hakimah Binti Mohd Yusoff, whose leadership and commitment have significantly influenced the global halal ecosystem, including the development of Islamic affairs in Malaysia and governance of halal matters. Her efforts have elevated Malaysia’s status as a globally recognized reference center for halal. YBhg. Datin Paduka Hajah Hakimah has spearheaded key initiatives to enhance Malaysia’s halal certification, addressing critical challenges through strategic reengineering and improved management processes.

As Malaysia continues to establish itself as a global halal hub, states are also advancing their industries alongside the national halal economy. This year’s Halal State Performance Excellence Award was presented to the Melaka State Government in recognition of its outstanding initiatives that have promoted halal practices while spurring investment in the halal industry. (more winners are listed in the Appendix 1)

With over 200 entries received this year—the nominees underwent thorough management audits conducted by Deloitte Business Advisory Sdn Bhd ensuring selection standards met global levels.

Leveraging HDC’s existing comprehensive offerings towards developing the halal industry—the WHEA 2023 winners received trophies alongside opportunities benefiting from HDC programs such as participation within World Halal Business Conference Circuit inclusion on industry representative panels discussing business challenges channelling insights directly towards policymakers and ministers whilst gaining recognition within HDC’s global network as WHEA Winners’ Elite Group.End-

NEWS RELEASE is prepared and issued by Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC).

FULL LIST OF AWARD WINNERS:

KEWPIE received the Halal Prominent Brand Excellence Award (International) for its effective marketing strategy that prominently features the halal logo in campaigns to promote its halal certification. The brand is also committed to sustainability, recycling an estimated 400 kg of PET bottles annually. Home-grown food manufacturer BABA’S was awarded in the Local Category; established in 1976, it not only holds Malaysian halal certification but has also earned Global Vegetarian Certification Services (GVCS) from India to promote halal and vegetarian products in global markets.

Alliance Bank Malaysia and Standard Chartered Saadiq were honoured with the Islamic Financial Services Excellence Award for Local and International Financial Institutions, respectively, recognizing their esteemed reputation in Islamic finance characterized by integrity, trust, and good governance. Their success is driven by knowledge, expertise, hard work, and a commitment to customer service through sustainable practices.

To honour the participation of Malaysian Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the Halal Entrepreneur SME Excellence Award was presented to Gemini Beauty Resources Sdn Bhd. This halal nutraceutical company offers innovative ready-to-drink supplements via the brand KITSUI, aimed at supporting wellness for both men and women. In 2023, it achieved a significant milestone by partnering with 7-Eleven, expanding its reach beyond Malaysia to successfully export products to Hong Kong and Singapore.

The Halal Logistics Excellence Award was awarded to Foodpanda for its initiative, Bekal by Foodpanda, which set a new standard in 2023 by exclusively delivering meals from halal-certified eateries. This initiative encourages more restaurants to pursue halal certification, demonstrating Foodpanda’s dedication to innovation and consumer satisfaction.

The Halal Technology & Innovation Excellence Award went to Duopharma Biotech Berhad (LLC/MNC) and World Prominence Bhd (Sudee) in the SME category. Duopharma is a leading pharmaceutical company specializing in developing and manufacturing a wide range of healthcare products, including generic medicines and halal-certified pharmaceuticals. It is at the forefront of technological advancement in the pharmaceutical industry, leveraging state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and research capabilities.

Sudee is a prominent brand known for its commitment to quality and authenticity in halal-certified food products. It offers a diverse range of items, including ready-to-eat meals, sauces, and condiments that cater to the dietary needs of Muslim consumers.

The Muslim-Friendly Healthcare Excellence Award was awarded to Klinik Al-Farabi Kuantan Sdn Bhd for its dedication to promoting halal-certified products while ensuring all business activities meet the highest halal standards for both local and international markets. Its commitment to community welfare is evident through free health screening events for underprivileged individuals and innovative programs designed to enhance lifestyle and health.

Mamee Double Decker Sdn Bhd (Large Company category) and Givaudan Flavours & Fragrances Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SME category) received the Halal International Business Excellence Award for demonstrating innovative business processes, advanced product R&D capabilities, high ESG awareness in their operations, and overall business achievements.

The Halal Pharmaceutical Excellence Award (LLC/MNC) was presented to Ain Medicare for significantly expanding its export network across diverse countries, including the Dominican Republic, Paraguay, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Yemen, Iraq, Bahrain, Oman, UAE, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Macau, Hong Kong, Thailand, among others. The SME category award went to Novugen Pharma, recognized as Malaysia’s first and Southeast Asia’s only U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approved company within ten years of its establishment.

Kopitiam Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd won the Halal Franchise Excellence Award (Franchisor), successfully expanding its footprint to Hong Kong, Singapore, the USA, Taiwan, China, and beyond. In a commendable effort to empower B40 and M40 entrepreneurs, it launched Oldtown White Coffee under the Affordable Franchise Development Programme (F3M). Woodpeckers Group Sdn Bhd won the Franchisee category award; last year marked a significant milestone with the opening of Llaollao’s 100th store. Continuing their growth trajectory, they introduced ChaTraMue to Malaysia in October 2023 with nine outlets nationwide—all committed to JAKIM halal certification.

This year’s WHEA introduced new award categories reflecting industry evolution: The Halal Gourmet Food & Beverages Excellence Award (LLC/MNC) went to Empire Sushi, the largest Grab & Go sushi brand in Malaysia that is halal-certified while Oriental Kopi, a popular Malaysian café chain renowned for its traditional Hainanese coffee won in the SME category for its local comfort food offerings.

Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur Chinatown received the Muslim-Friendly Tourism Excellence Award (International), while G Hotel won in the SME category. Both hotels offer halal-compliant amenities ensuring Muslim guests have access to prayer facilities and halal food options—making them ideal choices for travellers seeking a Muslim-friendly environment.

The newly introduced Islamic Content Creation Awards were presented to Tribune International (Australia) in the international category; it is known as the ‘Voice of Multicultural Australia’—the first multicultural English newspaper with over 5,000 international subscribers and 10,000 local subscribers covering various topics from education and health to global affairs. TV Al-Hijrah won the local category as Malaysia’s first Islamic TV station promoting Islam as a lifestyle while sharing Islamic knowledge and culture; it has expanded broadcasting into Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia while partnering with Palestine TV for current news coverage.

The Halal Cosmetics Excellence Awards were presented to Wardah for international category and Safi for local category—both brands are committed to promoting halal-certified cosmetics as trusted brands for Muslim consumers.

Muslim Pro received the Halal Digital Platform Excellence Award (International) for its comprehensive mobile application supporting daily religious practices of Muslims worldwide. The same award for Local Category went to ZUS Coffee, which has developed a dynamic digital platform enhancing customer engagement and convenience. This integration of technology with halal principles positions ZUS Coffee as a leader in Malaysia’s coffee market while reflecting their dedication to quality and community values.

The Halal International Relations Award was presented to Halal Food Authority (HFA) for playing a significant role in fostering international relations through its commitment to halal certification that aligns with global trade and market access for halal products especially between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia making HFA a prominent certification body ensuring food products meet halal standards.

Vinnie Ang received the Women Entrepreneur Excellence Award; she is CEO of Kanika, a leading Malaysian company renowned for premium halal-certified frozen food products that prioritize quality and innovation while meeting strict halal standards catering specifically to Muslim consumers’ needs.

Tan Kai Young, the CEO of Woodpecker Group—won the Youth Entrepreneur Excellence Award; he holds master franchises for Llaollao, ChaTraMue, and Shae.co in Malaysia emphasizing not only their halal certification but also eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable packaging while adhering strictly to ESG standards.

The Halal Industrial Park Excellence Award was conferred upon TH Properties, the operator of Techpark @ Enstek strategically located in Negeri Sembilan as an industrial park dedicated solely to halal-related industries. Spanning approximately 1,113 acres—it hosts major companies involved in producing halal food products alongside beverages biopharmaceuticals making it an essential player within Malaysia’s growing halal economy.

SPEACHES:

Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh,

Chief Minister of Melaka,

Yang Berusaha Encik Khairul Azwan Harun,

Chairman of Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC),

Yang Berusaha Encik Hairol Ariffein Sahari,

CEO of HDC

EXCO-EXCO Kerajaan Negeri, Ahli-ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri, Pegawai-pegawai Kanan serta Pegawai-pegawai Kerajaan Negeri Melaka

Distinguished Guests, Members of the Media, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, and a very good evening to all. Salam Malaysia Madani.

1. Pertama sekali, terima kasih kepada Kerajaan Negeri Melaka, terutamanya YAB Ketua Menteri, dan barisan exco Kerajaan Negeri kerana sudi hadir ke majlis ini, Anugerah Kecemerlangan Halal Dunia 2023, atau World

Halal Excellence Awards 2023, anjuran Halal Development Corporation.

2. Terima kasih juga kepada semua rakan strategik dengan komitmen yang tidak berbelah bahagi, yang telah menjayakan acara luar biasa ini, acara yang meraikan sumbangan berharga dari para pemimpin, inovator dan perintis dalam industri Halal. Dedikasi anda semua sememangnya mencerminkan kekuatan kolektif yang memacu industri kami ke hadapan.

MALAYSIA’S HALAL INDUSTRY: A COMPLETE ECOSYTEM FOR A THRIVING, INNOVATIVE, EXPORT-FOCUSED INDUSTRY 

3. Last year, we launched the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030), and the Halal Industry Master Plan (HIMP 2030), both of which feature a strong focus on the transformation and sustainable growth of the country’s Halal industry.

4. Allow me to briefly touch on Malaysia’s complete Halal Industry ecosystem, which has been developing the industry holistically for decades. Major institutions to be credited include the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) for Halal certification, HDC which focuses on human capital development, and the Malaysian Standards Department, which develops various industrial standards, including for the Halal sector.

5. In terms of export market access, MATRADE has proactively promoted the country’s exports – including Halal products and services – to the international market, as well as through their highly successful annual Malaysian International Halal Showcase (MIHAS).

6. In 2023, our Halal exports exceeded RM54 Just last month, we saw MIHAS achieve its record-breaking sales of RM4.3 billion, a 34% increase from last year’s RM3.2 billion. These milestones reflect the world’s rising demand for Halal products, and the dedication of key stakeholders who have contributed to Malaysia’s vibrant halal industry.

7. But we have begun to see strong competition from other countries – many have realised the value of the international Halal market, which is expected to reach USD5 trillion by This extends beyond F&B to include healthcare, pharmaceuticals, personal care, cosmetics, Muslim-friendly tourism, and financial services, embodying the vast possibilities within the Halal economy.

8. This is exactly why, over the past two years, the MADANI Government has relentlessly pushed for a whole-of- government effort to take proactive steps to strengthen our nation’s Halal ecosystem 

9. At MITI, we are committed to advancing service delivery within this vital sector through our agencies, while under the Majlis Pembangunan Industri Halal (MPIH), JAKIM has shortened the certification timeline from 60 to 30 days. This enables businesses quicker access to global markets, further strengthening our nation’s leadership in the Halal sector.

10. MITI and its agencies have also actively expanded the Halal market for our During YAB PM’s Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent state visit to Pakistan, for example, we secured potential trade deals worth RM2.65 billion, including increased imports of key Malaysian products, including palm oil. Pakistan has also pledged RM100 million of investments into the halal sector over the next three years.

11. We also see potential collaboration with Canada, where the halal market, valued at C$1 billion, is rapidly expanding to meet the needs of over 15 million Canadian Muslims. 

12. So, through our efforts on strategic cooperation and targeted investment, as well as industrial reform agenda, Malaysia is well-positioned to meet the demand for halal products and services globally, reinforcing our leadership in the international halal industry.

13. In short, our Halal industry and its ecosystem are on a strong But we must NOT be complacent. To build a sustainable, resilient Halal industry is not easy, which is why we are tracking closely the KPIs set out in the NIMP2030 and HIMP2030.

14. I am happy to share that just last week, we shared our 3Q2024 Report Card, showing a 7% value add to our GDP, an almost 1% increase in the number of persons employed in the manufacturing sector, and an 8.2% increase in median salary of workers. We at MITI strongly believe that this is what will eventually elevate industry standards and create lasting value and sectoral resilience for all stakeholders.

15. Additionally, as Malaysia takes over the Chairmanship of ASEAN next year, MITI will also ensure that the Malaysian Halal industry and SMEs will benefit from the various measures under ASEAN’s overarching policies on expanding trade and investments.

BUDGET        2025:         STRENGTHENING                       INDUSTRIAL COMPETITIVENESS VIA MALAYSIA’S HALAL ECOSYSTEM 

YAB Chief Minister, Ladies and Gentlemen,

16. Alhamdulillah, we see strong support for the Halal industry in the 2025 Budget announced by YAB PM:

1. Firstly, we welcome the addition of 100 new officers (RM5-million allocation) as halal auditors under JAKIM to expedite the issuance of halal certificates. Enhancement of the MYeHALAL system to reduce processing time for halal certificates issuance to between 15 and 23 days from 30 days, as well as the centralization of 20 Government agencies and 100 international halal certification bodies under a single platform is also welcome.

1. Second, we also welcome the RM20-million allocation to MATRADE to elevate the competitiveness of Malaysia’s Halal products and services globally. 

1. Third, the merger of MATRADE and HDC represents a strategic move to consolidate development and trade promotion support for halal exporters – particularly SMEs, to enhance Malaysia’s leadership and competitiveness in the global halal market. Market access for Malaysia’s halal products and services can also be further expanded through MATRADE’s strategic network of 49 trade offices globally.

1. Last but definitely not least, the Budget is also strong on halal sector financing for the SMEs. There is a RM1- billion allocation to SJPP to assist SMEs in the halal sector, as well as various other facilities under SME Bank; and the Bumiputra Economic Development 

17. I am confident that all these policy measures will elevate the standards of excellence, efficiency, and productivity within the Halal industry, for them to diversify and gain a competitive edge in the international arena. A stronger halal industry and export sector will also support local SMEs, creating more job opportunities for the locals. 

WORLD    HALAL    EXCELLENCE    AWARDS:   A                 GLOBAL BENCHMARK FOR HALAL EXCELLENCE

 YAB Chief Minister, Ladies and Gentlemen,

18. Since its inception in 2009, the Halal Excellence Awards by HDC has set a benchmark, celebrating outstanding achievements within the Halal industry. This year’s Awards continue this  legacy,  showcasing  and  honouring

Malaysia’s leadership in Halal excellence, and reaffirming Malaysia’s strong role in the global Halal landscape. 

19. The Awards’ 19 categories embody the diversity of the Halal sector –from F&B to logistics, finance, healthcare, to digital innovation. We also celebrate leadership excellence across categories, such as Halal Leadership, Halal SME, Islamic Financial Services, as well as Halal Technology & Innovation. In the spirit on inclusivity, tonight, we also honour women and youth entrepreneurs—the rising stars who continue to enrich and diversify our Halal sector.

CLOSING

20. In closing, to our award recipients, my warmest congratulations. May your accomplishments inspire others and lay the foundation for even greater contributions to build resilience and grow the Malaysian Halal industry

21. To our esteemed guests tonight – including leaders from MNCs, domestic Halal champions, trade and industry associations, chambers of commerce, government representatives, academia, and civil society — our gratitude for   contributing   to   a   more   resilient   and       vibrant          Halal ecosystem.

22. Izinkan saya mengakhiri ucapan saya dengan dua rangkap pantun:

Di Batu Berendam, kita berenang Di Tanjung Bidara, makan setalam Jangan suka mencari senang, Tanya peduli halal dan haram. 

Nasi lemak Tanjung Bidara, Sayang selasih, saya lurutkan,

Perniagaan kongsi sesama saudara, Kerana halal, MITI turutkan! 

Thank you. Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

END