The strategic partnership between the Halal Services and Research Center (PPPH) under the Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition (FSMP) at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Halal Hub of the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) is poised to contribute to the development of the halal hub in Sabah.

This was highlighted by PPPH Director, Dr. Noorakmar Abd Wahab, during his visit to the MUIS office, leading a UMS delegation for a courtesy call recently.

The UMS delegation, consisting of five members, was welcomed by representatives from the Sabah Halal Hub, led by MUIS Chief Executive Officer, Ramlan Awang Ali.

Dr. Noorakmar mentioned that the visit aimed to discuss collaboration opportunities between PPPH and the MUIS halal hub in halal-related services, particularly as PPPH is an accredited Halal Training Provider (PLH) by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) in Sabah.

“PPPH is ready to play its role in providing necessary training and courses for food entrepreneurs, whether at the cottage, small and medium scale, or large enterprises.

“Therefore, this discussion marks the beginning of a fruitful and targeted strategic collaboration between both parties, continuing the Memorandum of Understanding previously signed between UMS and MUIS,” he said.

He also informed that several proposals related to research activities had been presented to MUIS, including the potential collaboration in organizing the Halal Symposium, which is expected to be held in August 2024 at Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu.

“With the expertise at PPPH, joint research on halal analysis and knowledge can be carried out, providing valuable insights into the halal landscape that MUIS requires.

“Together, PPPH and MUIS can create a positive synergy to empower the industry and strengthen the halal ecosystem in Sabah,” he added.

Dr. Noorakmar also expressed appreciation to MUIS for its continuous support of PPPH in carrying out halal research and services.

“It is hoped that the ongoing collaboration between UMS and MUIS will benefit the state of Sabah in becoming a halal hub, particularly in producing food that is not only halal but also toyyiban (pure and wholesome),” he concluded.

Also present at the courtesy visit were FSMP Dean, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasmadi Mamat, and members of the halal research group, including Mohd Hazim Mohd Yusof, Dr. Nor Qhairul Izzreen Mohd Noor, and Dr. Yanty Noorzianna Abdul Manaf.