HDC and MAHTEC Collaborate to Boost Malaysia’s Halal Hospitality Industry

In a transformative development that promises to redefine Malaysia’s Halal hospitality sector, the Halal Development Corporation (HDC) and the Malaysian Association of Hotels Training and Education Center (MAHTEC) have officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). This significant collaboration aims to seamlessly integrate the hotel industry into Malaysia’s expansive Halal ecosystem, marking a major step forward in enhancing the nation’s Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality landscape.

Strategic Collaboration Unveiled in the Halal Hospitality Industry

The MOA was formally signed by Mr. Hairol Ariffein Sahari, CEO of HDC, and Datin Christina Toh, President of MAHTEC and the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH). The agreement was endorsed by key figures including HDC Chairman Mr. Khairul Azwan Harun, Chief Commercial Officer Dato’ Megat Shahrul Azman, and Secretary-General of MAH. Their endorsement underscores the critical importance of this partnership in elevating Malaysia’s Halal hospitality industry to new heights.

This collaboration is poised to invigorate Malaysia’s Halal hospitality sector by fostering proactive engagement from key industry players. The partnership supports the Halal Industry Master Plan (HIMP) 2030, a strategic blueprint designed to position Malaysia as a global leader in Muslim-friendly hospitality and economic sustainability. The HIMP2030 initiative aims to bolster Malaysia’s role in the international Halal economy through innovation, quality enhancement, and excellence in the Halal sector.

A Milestone for HIMP2030

Khairul Azwan Harun, Chairman of HDC, highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating, “This partnership represents a crucial milestone in our HIMP2030 initiative. It reinforces Malaysia’s leadership in the global Halal economy and solidifies our commitment to advancing Muslim-friendly tourism.”

Malaysia’s Leadership in Muslim-Friendly Travel

Malaysia’s reputation as a premier destination for Muslim-friendly travel continues to shine, with the country securing the top position in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 for the eighth consecutive year. This achievement underscores Malaysia’s unwavering dedication to developing a thriving Halal hospitality industry that caters to the needs of Muslim travelers globally. The GMTI ranking reflects Malaysia’s successful efforts in creating a welcoming environment for Muslim tourists, supported by comprehensive Halal services and amenities.

Introducing a Comprehensive Training Program

The strategic partnership between HDC and MAHTEC will launch an extensive Halal Industry Training Programme tailored to meet the unique needs of the hospitality sector. This training initiative is designed to equip professionals with essential skills and knowledge to excel in the Halal market. The program will be divided into three key components:

1. Halal Awareness Training Program

This component will provide a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of the Halal industry, including the Malaysian Halal certification processes and standards. Participants will gain insights into Halal concepts, compliance requirements, and best practices for ensuring Halal certification.

2. Halal Competency Training Program

Focused on practical skills, this component will cover the specifics of Halal certification and operational compliance. It will offer hands-on training to ensure that professionals are proficient in maintaining Halal standards within the hospitality sector, enhancing their ability to meet certification requirements.

3. Certified Halal Executive Program (CHEP)

This advanced module is designed for leadership roles within the Halal sector. The CHEP will provide specialized training for executives, equipping them with strategic and managerial skills needed to drive excellence in Halal hospitality. This program aims to prepare future leaders who can navigate the complexities of the Halal industry and contribute to its growth.

Developing a Skilled Workforce

Through this collaboration, HDC and MAHTEC aim to create a well-equipped workforce capable of meeting the rising demand for Halal services within Malaysia’s hospitality sector. The initiative will focus on both upskilling and reskilling local talent, preparing Malaysia to emerge as a global leader in Halal talent development and Muslim-friendly hospitality. By fostering a skilled workforce, the partnership will help ensure that Malaysia remains at the forefront of the Halal hospitality industry.

The training programs will also enhance awareness and visibility of career opportunities within the Halal industry, targeting both emerging and established segments of the hospitality sector. This effort aligns with the Malaysian government’s vision for “Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2025” (Visit Malaysia Year 2025), which seeks to further boost Malaysia’s tourism sector and make a substantial contribution to the country’s GDP.

The strategic collaboration between HDC and MAHTEC is a pivotal step in strengthening Malaysia’s Halal hospitality industry. By integrating the hotel sector into the broader Halal ecosystem and providing comprehensive training programs, this partnership is set to elevate Malaysia’s status as a global leader in Halal tourism and hospitality. The initiative reflects Malaysia’s commitment to innovation and excellence in Muslim-friendly travel, ensuring the country remains a top destination for Halal travelers and investors.

The partnership between HDC and MAHTEC signifies a major advancement for Malaysia’s Halal hospitality industry. By combining efforts to integrate the hotel sector into the Halal ecosystem and offering targeted training programs, this collaboration is poised to drive Malaysia’s success in the global Halal market. As Malaysia continues to set benchmarks in the international Halal economy, this initiative will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Muslim-friendly travel and ensuring the nation’s continued leadership in the global Halal hospitality industry.