Malaysia is set to become the primary halal distribution hub for New Zealand products entering the ASEAN market, following high-level discussions at the Malaysia–New Zealand Halal Forum.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that two New Zealand halal certification bodies have received recognition from Malaysia’s Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM), paving the way for seamless halal trade between the two nations.
“Malaysia is ready to serve as a springboard for New Zealand’s halal exports into Southeast Asia,” Zahid stated.
The initiative aligns with Malaysia’s ambition to capture 5% of the projected US$5 trillion global halal market by 2050, leveraging its robust halal infrastructure and regulatory leadership.
ASEAN Halal Council to Harmonize Regional Standards
Zahid revealed plans to launch the ASEAN Halal Council during the upcoming Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) in September. The council will include representation from ASEAN and ASEAN Plus nations, aiming to standardize halal certification across the region and facilitate mutual recognition agreements.
This proposal will be tabled at the ASEAN Summit in October, reinforcing Malaysia’s role in shaping the future of halal trade in Asia-Pacific.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Education and Innovation
The forum also witnessed the signing of letters of intent between Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and the University of Canterbury, as well as Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia (UPTM) and Victoria University of Wellington. These partnerships will foster collaboration in halal food systems, chemical engineering, and sustainable development, including student and staff mobility programs.
New Zealand’s Minister for Biosecurity and Food Safety, Andrew Hoggard, highlighted Malaysia’s importance as a premium halal meat market, with exports exceeding NZ$60 million (RM151 million) annually. Malaysia is currently facilitating approvals for several New Zealand halal meat premises seeking first-time access to the market.
Key Highlights:
- Malaysia to serve as ASEAN halal hub for New Zealand exports
- Launch of ASEAN Halal Council to harmonize certification standards
- Bilateral academic partnerships to boost halal innovation
- Malaysia targets 5% share of global halal market by 2050
