Syed Atiq ul Hassan Wins 2023 World Halal Excellence Award for Halal Industry Leadership

Malacca, Malaysia — In an impressive display of global unity and achievement, the 2023 World Halal Excellence Award ceremony celebrated the pivotal contributions of industry leaders and innovators. Held on October 29, 2024, at the Courtyard by Marriott Melaka, Malaysia, the event highlighted excellence in the expanding global halal market. Organized by Malaysia’s Halal Development Corporation (HDC) Berhad, this annual event recognized figures who have demonstrated leadership in sectors including halal food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, finance, and tourism. The event emphasized a growing demand for halal products and services worldwide, bringing together industry visionaries, government officials, and business leaders to inspire partnerships and promote global inclusivity.

The global halal industry, now worth an estimated $4.5 trillion, is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. Projections estimate that by 2030, the halal market will reach nearly $7 trillion, driven by an increasing number of consumers who value ethical standards in product sourcing and production processes. Halal-certified products resonate with consumers across various backgrounds, not only due to religious observance but also due to rising awareness about quality and safety.

Malaysia: A Leader in Halal Trade

Malaysia has long been a pioneer in the halal industry, setting standards that influence global halal certification and trade. With the support of HDC, Malaysia has built a robust halal infrastructure, from certification processes to consumer education initiatives. The Malaysian government, in partnership with private industry leaders, has positioned the country as a global hub for halal trade, with an ecosystem that supports the growth of small and large halal businesses alike. The government-backed halal initiatives align with Malaysia’s broader economic goals, which view the halal sector as both a cultural asset and a critical economic driver.

The country has introduced international standards in halal certification and halal logistics, aiming to meet the needs of diverse markets, including Muslim-majority countries, Europe, and North America. Malaysia’s halal certification process, one of the most stringent and widely respected worldwide, has set the benchmark for quality and integrity in the halal industry.

Global Partnerships

The World Halal Excellence Award ceremony welcomed prominent figures, including the Honourable Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh, Chief Minister of Malacca, and Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI). Their attendance, along with the presence of HDC Chairman Mr. Khairul Azwan Harun and CEO Mr. Hairol Ariffein Sahari, highlighted the importance of the halal industry to Malaysia’s economy and the nation’s role as a leader in the global halal market.

These dignitaries, who actively support halal industry initiatives, presented awards to individuals and organizations that have excelled in various categories. Their commitment signals Malaysia’s ongoing ambition to foster partnerships within the global halal community. With the growing interest in halal-certified goods, countries such as Japan, South Korea, and even the United States are now keen to collaborate with Malaysia, learning from the nation’s vast experience in halal standards and regulatory practices.

Syed Atiq ul Hassan

A notable moment during the event was the presentation of the World Halal Excellence Award for Islamic Content Creation 2023 to Syed Atiq ul Hassan. As the Editor-in-Chief of Tribune International (Australia) and the Founding Director of the Halal Conference & Expo Australia, Mr. Hassan has made substantial contributions to promoting halal integrity and inclusivity. His work has consistently focused on creating platforms that highlight the value of halal principles, ethical sourcing, and the importance of maintaining halal standards in diverse industries.

Under Mr. Hassan’s leadership, Tribune International has become a significant source of Islamic content, providing balanced perspectives on halal practices, Islamic finance, and cultural inclusivity. Mr. Hassan’s contributions extend beyond journalism; he has actively worked to bridge gaps between Muslim and non-Muslim communities, promoting halal awareness as part of a broader multicultural dialogue. The Halal Conference & Expo Australia, another of Mr. Hassan’s initiatives, provides a vital platform for stakeholders to explore the growing demand for halal-certified goods and services in Western markets.

In addition to his award, Tribune International received a Certificate of Achievement for the Islamic Content Creation Award (International) 2023. This recognition reflects the publication’s impact in raising awareness of Islamic values and principles, resonating with both Muslim and non-Muslim readers.

The Role of Media

Media platforms like Tribune International play a critical role in advancing halal awareness, particularly in non-Muslim-majority countries. Through insightful journalism, Syed Atiq ul Hassan has shed light on issues such as halal certification, ethical sourcing, and consumer education. His work underscores the importance of halal integrity in a world where consumer choices are increasingly influenced by ethical considerations.

Mr. Hassan’s journalistic vision aligns with the mission of the World Halal Excellence Award, as he has consistently championed values that resonate within the halal community while remaining inclusive of a global audience. His work has helped demystify halal principles for non-Muslim consumers, many of whom see halal as a mark of quality, safety, and ethical transparency. The content produced by Tribune International not only serves as an educational resource but also as a bridge that fosters understanding across cultures.

Related: World Halal Awards Position Malaysia for $5 Trillion Market Growth

Growth in Halal Industries

The World Halal Excellence Award 2023 underscored the rapid expansion of halal-certified industries worldwide. Halal food remains a foundational aspect, valued at over $2 trillion, with major brands now entering the halal market to cater to a growing consumer base. Leading fast-food chains, cosmetics companies, and pharmaceutical brands have introduced halal-certified products, recognizing the demand among Muslim and non-Muslim consumers alike.

The halal cosmetics industry is another area witnessing substantial growth. Valued at approximately $95 billion, it is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 12% through 2030. Brands are increasingly focusing on clean, ethical, and halal-certified ingredients to attract discerning consumers. Companies such as Amara Cosmetics and Tuesday in Love have gained popularity by creating halal-friendly options, responding to consumer preferences for transparency and quality in beauty products.

Halal finance has also emerged as a cornerstone of economic growth in the global halal industry. According to industry data, Islamic finance assets are expected to surpass $3 trillion by 2025. The halal finance sector, offering Shariah-compliant products and services, has appealed not only to Muslims but also to non-Muslims seeking ethical investment options. Leading Islamic finance institutions, including Dubai Islamic Bank and Malaysia’s Maybank, are expanding their portfolios to include ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investments, which align well with halal principles.

Halal Tourism

With halal tourism valued at over $200 billion, the industry is witnessing increasing interest as global travel rebounds. As more destinations recognize the value of catering to Muslim travelers, services are being adapted to offer halal dining options, prayer facilities, and modest accommodations. Destinations such as Turkey, Malaysia, and Indonesia have become popular for their commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere for Muslim travelers. In addition, non-Muslim-majority countries like Japan, South Korea, and Spain are now investing in halal tourism to attract Muslim visitors, recognizing the economic potential of this growing market.

Halal tourism is not only about accommodating religious practices; it also emphasizes the principles of ethical and sustainable travel. Destinations and travel companies are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly practices and ethical considerations that appeal to Muslim travelers who prioritize faith-aligned and socially responsible choices. This trend aligns with the values championed by the World Halal Excellence Award, as leaders in the industry continue to advocate for tourism that respects local culture, the environment, and the needs of Muslim travelers.

Malaysia’s Ambition

As a recognized leader in the halal industry, Malaysia aims to be the global hub for halal trade, with initiatives that span across sectors. The Halal Development Corporation (HDC) has played a central role in Malaysia’s rise as a halal powerhouse, supporting infrastructure that facilitates halal business growth domestically and internationally. HDC has introduced programs to foster collaboration between Malaysian and international businesses, focusing on areas such as halal logistics, innovation, and quality control.

Malaysia’s influence in the halal industry is further supported by its strategic geographic position and extensive trade relationships. As the demand for halal-certified goods grows in the Asia-Pacific region, Malaysia has been able to position itself as a supplier of halal products to countries like Japan, China, and South Korea. The government has also established international halal certification standards that are widely respected, helping Malaysian products gain recognition in Western markets as well.

Syed Atiq ul Hassan’s Vision

For Syed Atiq ul Hassan, winning the World Halal Excellence Award represents a culmination of years dedicated to advocacy, community building, and content creation in the halal industry. His work continues to inspire new generations of leaders in halal journalism, content creation, and industry advocacy. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Hassan expressed gratitude to the Halal Development Corporation, recognizing the importance of the award in encouraging innovation and inclusivity in the halal sector.

Mr. Hassan’s vision extends beyond content creation; he envisions a world where halal principles are not only respected but embraced as part of a broader movement toward ethical and sustainable practices. By fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting the values of halal integrity, Mr. Hassan hopes to contribute to a future where halal practices are valued universally, transcending religious boundaries.

The Future of the Halal Industry

As the halal industry expands, its impact will extend into areas beyond traditional food and beverage markets. Emerging trends, such as the integration of halal principles with sustainability initiatives, highlight the adaptability of halal values to contemporary consumer expectations. For example, companies are exploring ways to align halal certification with sustainability goals, appealing to eco-conscious consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility.

Future awards will likely recognize individuals and organizations that advance these intersections of halal and sustainability, encouraging innovation that addresses both faith and environmental concerns. The global halal market’s growth is being driven not only by religious observance but also by universal principles of quality, safety, and integrity that resonate with a diverse consumer base.

The World Halal Excellence Award

The World Halal Excellence Award 2023 showcased the dedication of individuals and organizations committed to advancing the halal industry in innovative and impactful ways. By recognizing leaders such as Syed Atiq ul Hassan, the award underscores the importance of maintaining halal integrity, promoting inclusivity, and fostering global partnerships. As consumer interest in ethical and halal-certified products continues to grow, the industry stands poised to reach unprecedented heights, driven by leaders who champion these values.

Through his work with Tribune International and the Halal Conference & Expo Australia, Mr. Hassan has set an inspiring example of how halal principles can guide media, business, and community initiatives. His award serves as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on the global halal movement. With his leadership, and that of other award recipients, the halal industry is entering a new era of growth, inclusivity, and ethical integrity that will resonate with consumers around the world.