KUCHING – The halal industry in Sarawak has demonstrated robust growth throughout the first half of 2026, with official figures revealing a significant expansion in certified businesses. This upward trajectory was highlighted during a recent certificate presentation ceremony held at The Waterfront Hotel, underscoring the region’s increasing prominence in the global Islamic economy.
The event, known as the Malaysian Halal Certification Certificate Presentation Programme, took place on 21 July 2026. It was organised as a key component of the Borneo International Halal Showcase 2026. The programme was a collaborative effort involving three major regulatory bodies: the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department, the Sarawak Islamic Council, and the Malaysian Islamic Development Department, commonly referred to as JAKIM.
Senior officials from both state and federal levels attended the gathering to mark the occasion. The ceremony was officiated by Dato’ Dr. Sirajuddin bin Suhaimee, who serves as the Director General of JAKIM. He was joined by Datuk Misnu bin Taha, the President of the Sarawak Islamic Council, and Ustaz Hamdan bin Jar’ee, the Director of the JAKIM Sarawak Branch. Their presence signalled the high priority placed on maintaining rigorous standards within the sector.
During a subsequent press briefing, Dato’ Dr. Sirajuddin provided detailed insights into the current state of halal compliance in the state. He noted that the development of certification processes in Sarawak continues to display encouraging performance metrics. This trend reflects a strong level of confidence among industry players in the integrity of the Malaysian Halal Certification System.
Statistical data released during the event paints a clear picture of this growth. As of 29 June 2026, Sarawak recorded a total of 1,191 active holders of the Malaysian Halal Certification. These entities are engaged in various certification schemes, covering a wide spectrum of commercial activities from food production to service provision.
In addition to the broad base of existing certificate holders, there has been notable progress in specific niche markets. Fourteen frozen food outlets successfully secured their certification earlier this year. This achievement is seen as evidence of the positive development within the halal industry and indicates an expanding network of premises that consumers can trust for their dietary requirements.
Regulatory authorities have emphasised that this growth must be matched by unwavering adherence to standards. JAKIM, working in tandem with the Sarawak Islamic Council and the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department, has committed to strengthening the governance framework of the certification system. Their approach is rooted in principles of integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Entrepreneurs operating within the state have been urged to maintain strict compliance with all halal certification requirements. Authorities stressed that obtaining the certificate is not merely a formality but a crucial step in ensuring product safety and quality. Meanwhile, the general public has been encouraged to prioritise products and premises that carry the official halal mark. This consumer choice acts as a guarantee of halal status, offering peace of mind regarding safety and quality assurance.
The broader goal of these ongoing efforts is to fortify the halal ecosystem within Sarawak. By ensuring rigorous oversight and supporting business compliance, regulators aim to enhance the competitiveness of the local halal industry. This strategy is designed to bolster Sarawak’s standing not only at the national level but also in the international marketplace, where demand for trusted halal products continues to rise.
The collaboration between federal and state bodies suggests a unified front in promoting ethical business practices. As the number of certified entities grows, the focus remains on sustaining this momentum through education, enforcement, and engagement with both producers and consumers. The success of initiatives like the Borneo International Halal Showcase serves as a platform to highlight these achievements and foster further investment in the sector.
