Kota Kinabalu — As Sabah continues to develop its economic landscape, the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) is calling on local entrepreneurs to capitalize on the burgeoning halal industry. The state’s rich resources, strategic location, and increasing consumer demand position it as a key player in this lucrative market. However, to fully realize this potential, Sabah entrepreneurs must embrace halal certification and take advantage of the support offered by KUSKOP.
The Growing Importance of Halal Certification and Sabah Entrepreneurs
Halal certification is a critical component for businesses looking to tap into the global halal market. This certification signifies that products and services adhere to Islamic law (Shariah), which prohibits certain practices such as interest (riba) and ensures ethical standards in production. For Sabah entrepreneurs, obtaining halal certification is not just about compliance but about seizing a significant market opportunity.
Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick highlighted the state’s potential in the halal sector, noting Sabah’s abundant supply of raw materials, semi-finished products, and its advantageous location. Despite these advantages, the number of certified halal businesses in Sabah is relatively low. According to the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) Halal Hub, only about 350 companies have achieved halal certification. Ewon emphasized the need for a substantial increase in this number to allow more businesses to participate in KUSKOP’s halal entrepreneurship programs.
The Sabah MADANI Entrepreneur Halal Awareness Workshop
The Sabah MADANI Entrepreneur Halal Awareness Workshop, recently held in Kota Kinabalu, underscored the ministry’s commitment to boosting the halal industry. This two-day event, attended by 168 local entrepreneurs, aimed to enhance their understanding of halal certification and its benefits. The workshop focused on improving the capabilities of entrepreneurs and cooperatives to produce and offer competitive halal products and services.
The event also served as a platform for discussing the strategic importance of halal certification and its role in expanding Sabah’s market reach. By equipping local businesses with the knowledge and resources needed for certification, KUSKOP hopes to foster a more robust and dynamic halal industry in the state.
Support Programs for Sabah Entrepreneurs
To facilitate the growth of halal-certified businesses, KUSKOP offers a range of support programs tailored to meet the needs of Sabah entrepreneurs. These programs include:
- Financing Assistance: KUSKOP provides up to RM10,000 to cover the costs associated with halal certification. This financial support can be used for halal awareness and certification courses for employees, consultation services, product analysis, and certification fees. This assistance helps businesses offset the costs of compliance and ensures that they can meet certification standards without financial strain.
- Brand Development Support: Through the Halal Product Capacity Development Programme, KUSKOP offers up to RM30,000 for brand development activities. This funding can be used for creating prototypes, upgrading packaging and labeling, and enhancing overall product presentation. By improving brand visibility and appeal, businesses can better compete in both local and international markets.
- Innovation and Technology Grants: For businesses that have already obtained halal certification, the Halal Innovation and Technology Programme provides grants to support innovation and technological advancement. This program offers financial assistance for technology transfers, machine purchases, digitalization efforts, research and development, and product commercialization. By fostering innovation, KUSKOP aims to help businesses enhance their product offerings and increase their market competitiveness.
Internationalization and Market Expansion
The halal market is not only growing domestically but also expanding internationally. To support Sabah entrepreneurs in reaching global markets, KUSKOP has introduced the Halal Entrepreneur Internationalisation Programme. This initiative is designed to assist stable and export-ready micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in strengthening Malaysia’s halal brand on the international stage.
The program provides financial support for MSMEs to participate in international expos and trade fairs, covering costs related to product registration and market entry. By building business networks and marketing channels, this initiative helps Malaysian halal products and services gain visibility and access in global markets. Strengthening the international presence of Sabah’s halal products can lead to increased export opportunities and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
The Role of Collaboration and Support
Effective collaboration between KUSKOP, the Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry, and the MUIS Halal Hub is crucial for the success of these programs. By working together, these organizations aim to create a supportive ecosystem for halal entrepreneurs, providing them with the resources, guidance, and certification needed to thrive.
Ewon’s emphasis on collaboration reflects the ministry’s strategic approach to building a robust halal industry in Sabah. The close partnership with MUIS Halal Hub ensures that entrepreneurs receive comprehensive support throughout the certification process, from initial application to final approval. This collaborative effort is essential for fostering a thriving halal sector that can compete on both national and international levels.
Future Prospects and Industry Trends
The halal industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for ethical and compliant products. As global interest in halal products continues to rise, Sabah’s entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to leverage this trend. By obtaining halal certification and engaging with KUSKOP’s support programs, local businesses can position themselves as leaders in this expanding market.
Emerging trends in the halal industry include a growing focus on innovation and technology, as well as increasing consumer awareness of ethical and sustainable practices. Entrepreneurs who embrace these trends and invest in advanced technologies will be better positioned to meet market demands and achieve long-term success.
Sabah’s halal industry presents a promising opportunity for local entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and contribute to the state’s economic development. With KUSKOP’s support programs, including financing assistance, brand development grants, and innovation support, Sabah entrepreneurs are well-equipped to navigate the halal certification process and seize the potential of this burgeoning market.
The Sabah MADANI Entrepreneur Halal Awareness Workshop and the Halal Entrepreneur Internationalisation Programme are key initiatives that underscore the ministry’s commitment to fostering a vibrant halal industry. By actively participating in these programs and leveraging the available resources, Sabah entrepreneurs can enhance their product offerings, expand their market reach, and make a significant impact in the global halal industry.
For more information on halal certification and KUSKOP’s support programs, Sabah entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit the MUIS Halal Hub or contact KUSKOP directly. With the right support and strategic planning, Sabah’s halal businesses can achieve remarkable growth and success in the competitive global market.
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