Bernama: The World Halal Business Conference Circuit 2023 (WHBC 2023), has concluded here on Saturday (Oct 28), marking significant progress in the halal industry and the strengthening of international relations.
The conference was organised by Halal Development Corp Bhd (HDC) and hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti).
In a statement, HDC said the conference fostered an environment for knowledge exchange, networking, and strategic collaborations which showcased evolving trends, potential opportunities, and critical challenges in the halal industry.
WHBC 2023 also made a resounding statement by placing the spotlight on halal diplomacy initiatives at the event’s opening by focusing on diplomatic outreach within the halal industry which underscored its role as a catalyst for global cross-cultural collaboration and understanding.
“WHBC’s emphasis on halal diplomacy initiatives reflects our commitment to fostering robust international relationships in the halal industry.
“These measures open channels for understanding, cooperation, and shared growth, positioning the halal industry as an agent of economic and diplomatic unity,” said HDC chairman
HDC said WHBC 2023, which was deemed a stellar success, was marked by significant partnership commitments, fruitful collaborations, and groundbreaking initiatives.
Among its key accomplishments would be HDC’s collaboration with the Malaysian Palm Oil Certification Council to promote sustainability.
The conference also saw Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announce financing facilities worth RM2.67 billion to specifically bolster the halal sector.
“However, the milestone that truly signifies our commitment to innovation is the soft launch of the National Digital Halal Platform (NHDP), revolutionising halal certification management,” said HDC.
In a closing address, HDC chief executive officer Hairol Ariffein Sahari expressed the agency’s commitment to strengthening international relations within the halal ecosystem and the determination of HDC to facilitate engagements that spur creativity, inspire innovation, and foster fruitful collaborations.
“Building on the momentum generated at WHBC 2023, we are excited to announce that the next edition, WHBC 2024, will take place in one of the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC).
“The region has consistently demonstrated significant interest in the halal market, making it an ideal location to continue building upon the important topics and issues discussed this year,” said Hairol.
He noted that industry leaders, experts, and halal enthusiasts should mark their calendars for WHBC 2024 which promises further insights, innovation, and inspiration in the world of halal business.
