South Korea

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia continues to strengthen its position as a global halal hub by serving as a strategic gateway for South Korean halal products into Southeast Asian and West Asian markets.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu (picture) said cooperation with South Korea is also vital for the nation’s food security by diversifying halal supplies from various countries, thereby reducing reliance on a single source.

“God willing, such efforts will continue for a more secure future for halal food for Malaysians,” he said in a Facebook post today.

During his recent visit to South Korea, Mohamad said he had the opportunity to visit the country’s only recognised halal slaughterhouse, Handawoon FSL Co Ltd, to witness first-hand the slaughtering and butchering process of premium Hanwoo beef, which is now in high demand in international markets.

“I want to ensure that halal food supplies arriving in Malaysia are not only of high quality but also fully comply with syariah standards and are safe for consumption,” he said.

Mohamad said Malaysia is the only country to receive halal Hanwoo beef after Handawoon FSL was granted approval to export the meat to Malaysia in May 2023, and the response from Malaysians has been very positive.

The company is also seeking to expand its market to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), further demonstrating South Korea’s capability to produce halal products that meet international standards, despite not being a Muslim country, he added. — BERNAMA