Halal Industry Has Potential To Be Key Driver Of Economic Growth In Timor-Leste - Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- The halal industry has the potential to be a key driver of economic growth in Timor-Leste, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Ahmad Zahid, who is on an official visit to Timor-Leste, said he has highlighted the significant opportunities that Timor-Leste could harness through the halal market, which is expected to exceed US trillion by 2030 during the Halal Round Table Session organised by Halal Development Corporation Bhd (HDC) and Trade Invest of Timor-Leste.

“By tapping this growing industry, Timor-Leste could diversify its economy, attract foreign investment, and generate employment, particularly in tourism, food production and pharmaceuticals.

“As Timor-Leste pushes towards ASEAN membership, integrating halal practices will be vital. Halal diplomacy, aimed at strengthening international cooperation and economic ties, would not only enhance Timor-Leste’s global standing but also deepen its relationships within the ASEAN community,” he said in a statement today.

Ahmad Zahid who is also the chairman of the Halal Industry Development Council (MPIH) said HDC chairman Khairul Azwan Harun had also in the discussion reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to supporting Timor-Leste in capturing the global halal market, emphasising the importance of knowledge sharing and capacity building to meet international standards.

“Tourism, identified as a key entry point for halal development, has the potential to attract Muslim travellers and lay the groundwork for broader industry growth. The session, attended by over 20 organisations from the tourism and hospitality sectors, concluded with a collective call to action to develop a vibrant halal industry in Timor-Leste, reflecting our shared vision of leveraging halal as a powerful force for economic development and international collaboration,” he said.

According to Ahmad Zahid, Malaysia’s success in the halal industry, led by HDC and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), stands as a testament to the opportunities this sector offers.

“HDC has been instrumental in promoting market growth and investment in halal industries, while JAKIM ensures that Malaysia’s halal certification meets the highest global standards.

“These experiences and best practices could serve as a valuable blueprint for Timor-Leste as it seeks to develop its own halal sector,” he said.