KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 13 (Bernama) — The Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC) is targeting RM2 billion worth of new investments into its eight halal parks this year from local and international investors.
Managing Director and Chief executive Officer Datuk Seri Jamil Bidin said the halal parks are already in operation at various locations throughout the country and had attracted a total of RM4.8 billion in investment so far.
“Halal is the major advantage here.The system and infrastructure that we are offering is very attractive to foreign investors.
“Among countries keen to invest in the parks are Japan, Pakistan and Australia,” he told reporters at the media appreciation luncheon here Thursday.
On the corporatisation of the HDC, he said, it was hoped the HDC Statutory Act bill could be tabled in Parliament this year.
The draft, he added, is now being prepared by the HDC team before being sent to the Attorney General’s Chambers and later to the Cabinet for approval.
“We hope with this privatisation, the HDC can be recognised as the focal point for the halal industry. It will also enable the HDC to be properly empowered to implement all its initiatives.
“This also means that any issue related to budget allocation by the government, specifically for developmental projects,” can be properly channeled to the HDC,” he explained.
Commenting on the Halal Champions Programme, he said the company has allocated an estimated RM1 million for four companies, with each getting RM250,000.
“The HDC’s masterplan is designed to create the most conducive environment for the industry to grow. It details several programmes to be carried out during the year, in support of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry’s Key Results Area,” said Jamil.
Meanwhile, speaking on the World Halal Research Summit 2011 to be held here from April 6-7, Jamil said it would emphasise the commercialisation of the halal ecosystem for the benefit of the industry players.
The two-day summit at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
— BERNAMA
