EMPOWERING THE HALAL WORKFORCE: KEY OUTCOMES FROM THE HALAL TALENT SYMPOSIUM 2024

PETALING JAYA, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- The Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) successfully organized the Halal Talent Symposium 2024, themed “Empowering the Halal Workforce of the Future”. Officiated by YBhg. Datuk Bahria binti Mohd Tamil, Deputy Secretary General, Investment and Management, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) the event brought together around 200 industry leaders, government officials, and educational institutions to discuss the vital role of talent development in elevating Malaysia’s Halal ecosystem

In the Keynote Address by YBhg. Datuk Bahria emphasized that Malaysia’s potential to lead the global Halal market, in producing skilled local talent as an essential aspect to maintaining excellence in Halal standards.

"Our commitment to maintaining excellence in Halal standards and practices is shown in our strategic initiatives such as the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030," she said. She also highlighted the importance of nurturing a skilled workforce capable of adapting to the evolving demands of the Halal industry.

Datuk Bahria said the Halal industry is a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and services. "At the core of our thriving Halal economy the most valuable asset is our people," she said, calling for a collaborative approach to talent development that connects small and medium enterprises with educational institutions and the public sector.

Khairul Azwan Harun, Chairman of HDC, remarked, “Today’s discussions are critical as we aim to strengthen our Halal workforce. By aligning our educational programs with industry needs, we can ensure a steady stream of skilled professionals ready to meet the global challenges ahead.”

The symposium also introduced the Halal Community Practice Framework, designed to enhance training and certification within the Halal industry. This framework aims to foster collaboration between educational institutions and industry players, ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of Halal innovation and practices.

With insights gained from thorough stakeholder engagement, the framework identifies eight (8) key interventions to address training gaps and enhance the visibility of careers in Halal. "Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities, ensuring that Malaysia not only remains a leader in the global Halal market but continues to define its future," added Azwan.

HDC looks forward to continuing its mission of empowering the Halal workforce and solidifying Malaysia's reputation as a leader in the global Halal economy.

ABOUT HALAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BERHAD (HDC) spearheads the development of Malaysia’s integrated and comprehensive halal ecosystem and infrastructure to position Malaysia as the most competitive country leading the global halal industry. Established on 18 September 2006, HDC is the central coordinator that promotes participation and facilitates growth of industry players in the development of Malaysia’s Halal ecosystem. An agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry; it is the world’s first Government-backed halal industry development corporation. For more information, please visit HDC at - www.hdcglobal.com.

SOURCE: Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Norsida Ahmad
Tel: +6012 3249703
Email: norsida.ahmad@hdcglobal.com

--BERNAMA