Halal Hub Will Raise Labuan’s Name Internationally

Halal Hub Will Raise Labuan’s Name Internationally


LABUAN,
March 5 (Bernama) — The Labuan Halal Distribution Hub once fully
operational will be the centre of distribution for Malaysian halal
products both for the domestic and international market.

Federal Territory Minister Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique said, the
hub, with its stringent and high quality standards, will be able to
raise the name of Labuan in the international arena just like it
happened with the status of International Business and Financial Centre
given to it in the early 90s.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi officiated the
ground breaking ceremony for the hub project, expected to cost RM86
million, at its site in Kiansam near here Thursday.

Zulhasnan said the project was a continuation of the Sabah
Development Corridor project which will be supplier of raw materials to
the distribution hub.

“I am very confident that the Labuan people will give their
support to ensure the success of the project which stands to increase
the living standards and earnings of the people,” he said.

With the hub in Labuan, value addition can be given to local food
products and hence prepare them for export to the global market.

The Halal Distribution Hub project was planned considering the
rich ocean resources of the island which could be produced into food
products and pharmaceuticals both for Muslims and non Muslims.

The project will cover an area totalling 25 hectares. The owners
of the land are Labuan Corporation which has 4.5 hectares, Malaysia
Fisheries Development Board (LKIM) which holds 8.75 hectares, GP Ocean
(five hectares), Customs Department which has 0.75 hectares, and
private parties who own the remaining land.

Among the important components in the development of the first
phase will be the prototype system for Halal identification and
verification, strategic business plan, and other facilities such as
processing centre, cold storage, laboratory and offices.

The building consultant for the project is Marditech Corporation Sdn Bhd.

At its initial stage, the distribution hub will focus on the
resources from the sea, after which it will cover meat based products
and fruits.

LKIM is currently building a new jetty for the landing and
collection of the sea catch to replace the old jetty which is located
right in the middle of Labuan city.

The new jetty will give the opportunity for businesses to expand
their business and also enable new participants to enter the sector.