Malaysia lauds New Zealand’s bid to join proposed Asean Halal Council

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) — Malaysia has welcomed New Zealand to the soon-to-be-established Asean Halal Council, aimed at further strengthening regional halal certification standards, reports NST.

Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that although New Zealand was not a member of Asean, the bloc could introduce an Asean Halal Council Plus framework or invite the country as an observer member.

“In my discussion with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon earlier, we covered cooperation in the halal industry, which both countries have long engaged in.

“Jakim (The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) has appointed three Muslim associations in New Zealand to issue halal certifications. “We believe that halal products should not be limited to food and beverages alone,” he said.

Zahid said halal was not only to cater to Muslims, as it encompasses hygiene, scientific testing and quality assurance. “These certification standards can be further enhanced, and we have proposed that New Zealand join the Asean Halal Council. 

Although New Zealand is not an Asean member state, we could establish an Asean Halal Council Plus framework or invite them as an observer member within the Council,” he said.

Zahid, who also chairs the National Halal Council, and the New Zealand prime minister witnessed the exchange of notes between Malaysia and New Zealand on the Halal Implementation Arrangement.

The exchange was carried out between Jakim director-general Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee and New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia Mike Walsh. 

Luxon said New Zealand had vowed to enhance the export of safe and reliable halal meat products to Malaysia following the exchange of the upgraded Halal Implementing Arrangement with Malaysia.