MAKKAH – From 14 to 16 February, the Jabatan Agama Islam Sarawak (JAIS), through its Halal Management Division, joined the Sarawak Halal Industry Development Council’s delegation to the Makkah Halal Forum 2026 in Makkah. The visit strengthened Sarawak’s role in the global halal ecosystem and reinforced its long-term ambitions in the sector.
The delegation was led by Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department. He was joined by Mohd Naroden Majais, Adviser for SMEs under MINTRED Sarawak, Misnu Taha, President of the Sarawak Islamic Council, and Ramzen Ambi, Head of the Halal Management Division at JAIS.
As Sarawak’s halal certification authority, JAIS centered its efforts on governance, monitoring, and certification systems. The goal was clear: ensure compliance with Shariah principles while meeting international benchmarks. Its presence at the forum signaled Sarawak’s push to strengthen credibility and raise its standing in the halal market.
Held under the theme “Halal as a Professional Industry,” the forum was officiated by Majid Al-Qasabi, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Commerce. Representatives from over 16 countries attended, taking part in conferences, exhibitions, business-to-business sessions, and strategic dialogues with certification bodies and industry leaders.
A key moment at the forum was the introduction of the Halal Academy and the unveiling of the Golden Halal logo. Both initiatives aim to formalize industry standards and build stronger consumer trust in halal products worldwide. They also reflect Saudi Arabia’s drive to take a leading role in the global halal industry.
For Sarawak, the forum opened doors to expand international networks, strengthen recognition of its halal certification, and explore partnerships with global players. The delegation’s involvement also underscored the state’s broader aim to position itself as a competitive halal hub and investment destination.
Through active engagement and by presenting its governance framework, Sarawak showed it is ready to contribute to the global halal economy. The effort aligns with its vision of building a sustainable, internationally recognized halal industry that supports economic growth and benefits local communities.
