Tengku Zafrul: Miti studying proposal to merge HDC and Matrade
KUALA LUMPUR: The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) is studying the proposed merger of the Halal Development Corporation (HDC) and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade).
Its minister, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz, said the matter is currently under discussion, alongside several other proposals aimed at strengthening the country's halal industry.
"We want to enhance the halal industry by focusing on halal development and avoiding overlaps in halal trade responsibilities.
"We want Matrade to concentrate more on halal trade by facilitating market access for halal products, while HDC should focus on halal development," he told reporters after the Asean-GCC Economic Forum 2025 here today.
Tengku Zafrul added that the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) would continue to focus on investment activities related to the halal industry.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
35 minutes ago
- The Star
Anwar, Paetongtarn propel Malaysia-Thailand ties to new heights
Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, right, greets Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before the plenary session at the Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur Monday, May 26, 2025. - AP KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand and Malaysia's bilateral relationship is entering a new high point, with the prime ministers of both nations showing strong commitment to strengthening ties and charting a path towards greater cooperation. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa underscored this momentum, noting that the strong bond between Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra signals a more robust and forward-looking partnership. "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Anwar and Prime Minister Paetongtarn, Malaysia and Thailand have witnessed a deepening of cooperation, particularly at the border areas of (both countries). "Whenever both leaders meet, I can see the strong bond between them. This is a good opportunity for Thailand and Malaysia to work closely together, not only in trading and investment, but also in human security,' he told Bernama in an exclusive interview on the sidelines of the 46th Asean Summit and Related Summits held here, recently. Regular communications established between the two leaders have also helped to strengthen mutual understanding and pave way for more strategic cooperation ahead. Economic ties between the two neighbours remain robust. In 2024, Thailand was Malaysia's seventh-largest trading partner globally and third-largest within Asean, with total trade amounting to US$25.03 billion (RM114.56 billion). Between January and February this year, bilateral trade stood at US$3.96 billion (RM17.65 billion), up from US$3.67 billion (RM16.80 billion) during the same period in 2024. Anwar and Paetongtarn have placed importance on the development of the border areas. They aim to build a thriving economic corridor along the shared border by stimulating trade and investments, as well as implementing cross-border infrastructure projects to promote better connectivity. Both sides are also prioritising the integration of Special Border Economic Zones (SBEZs) to boost cross-border trade and investment. Economic activities along the Thai-Malaysia border are key drivers of both countries' economic development, with border trade currently accounting for more than 30 per cent of the bilateral trade. Maris described the joint development of the border areas by Malaysia and Thailand as a perfect example of a mutually beneficial cooperation. He highlighted that cross-border cooperation with big potential and should be further tapped are the growing halal industry, as well as the palm oil and rubber sectors. He said that while both leaders can facilitate and coordinate the opening up of more opportunities, the results can only be achieved with the active participation of the private sectors of the two countries. "There are good policies between the two countries that can lead to more productive engagement and collaboration of private sector, contributing to the rapid development in the areas' he said. Anwar and Paetongtarn have maintained good communication through in-person meetings and phone conversations to discuss issues of mutual interest and concern. They have met three times so far, with the first time in Putrajaya in December last year, followed by in Bangkok last April. Both of them also met at the 46th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur, last week. They agreed to hold a joint Cabinet meeting at the Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam border area later this year. - Bernama
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Nation acted swiftly to face economic, geopolitical shocks, says PM
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia was among the earliest nations to act swiftly and decisively to shield its industries, businesses and people from global economic and geopolitical shocks, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. 'We have rolled out strategic and comprehensive actions across all sectors to preserve our economic stability and national competitiveness.' Anwar was speaking at Istana Negara yesterday in conjunction with the official birthday of His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim. He said the government responded swiftly and strategically to a host of global disruptions, from geopolitical conflicts to rising trade tariffs. Anwar added that the nation's true strength goes beyond economic metrics and lies in the resilience and resolve of its people. 'Our agricultural sector, local products and domestic industries remain the backbone of the economy, all driven by a patriotic and increasingly self-reliant populace. 'The unwavering support of the people reflects not only patriotism but also an acute awareness of the need for self-sufficiency in these uncertain times.' Malaysia, as Asean chair, has taken an active role in shaping regional diplomacy. Anwar highlighted the recent Asean Summit as a diplomatic milestone, the first to bring together Asean, the Gulf Cooperation Council and China on a single platform. He described the achievement as testament to Malaysia's commitment to global collaboration, shared prosperity and common diplomatic interests. Anwar also praised the success of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition, crediting it to the professionalism of the Armed Forces and the strong coordination between public and private sectors. Looking ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Anwar said the campaign would not only reinvigorate tourism but also serve as a vital engine for economic growth and job creation. 'It is an expression of our love for the country, our culture and our heritage. Malaysia will welcome the world with smiles, warmth and the genuine hospitality of our people.' Reaffirming the government's dedication to comprehensive reforms under the Malaysia Madani framework, Anwar said development must remain people-focused and rooted in values such as justice, dignity and compassion. 'Infrastructure development is not just about mega-projects like the East Coast Rail Link and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. 'We are prioritising essential public services – upgrading schools, enhancing hospitals and improving transport networks.' He added that economic restructuring would continue, with emphasis on attracting high-quality investments, empowering SMEs, accelerating innovation and technology and ensuring that every Malaysian, regardless of race or background, has a fair shot at success. Touching on national unity, Anwar stressed that cohesion is not a luxury but a necessity in an unpredictable world. 'In a world of rapid change and rising challenges, unity is indispensable. All efforts to strengthen national integration will be intensified to ensure that no one is left behind in our shared pursuit of a brighter future.' He expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the King's wise and unifying leadership. 'May Allah SWT continue to bless His Majesty to reign with strength, health and enduring wisdom. 'The people reaffirm their steadfast loyalty to His Majesty and remain united in shared commitment to the prosperity and progress of our beloved nation.'
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Nation acted swiftly to face economic, geopolitical shocks
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia was among the earliest nations to act swiftly and decisively to shield its industries, businesses and people from global economic and geopolitical shocks, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. 'We have rolled out strategic and comprehensive actions across all sectors to preserve our economic stability and national competitiveness.' Anwar was speaking at Istana Negara yesterday in conjunction with the official birthday of His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim. He said the government responded swiftly and strategically to a host of global disruptions, from geopolitical conflicts to rising trade tariffs. Anwar added that the nation's true strength goes beyond economic metrics and lies in the resilience and resolve of its people. 'Our agricultural sector, local products and domestic industries remain the backbone of the economy, all driven by a patriotic and increasingly self-reliant populace. 'The unwavering support of the people reflects not only patriotism but also an acute awareness of the need for self-sufficiency in these uncertain times.' Malaysia, as Asean chair, has taken an active role in shaping regional diplomacy. Anwar highlighted the recent Asean Summit as a diplomatic milestone, the first to bring together Asean, the Gulf Cooperation Council and China on a single platform. He described the achievement as testament to Malaysia's commitment to global collaboration, shared prosperity and common diplomatic interests. Anwar also praised the success of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition, crediting it to the professionalism of the Armed Forces and the strong coordination between public and private sectors. Looking ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Anwar said the campaign would not only reinvigorate tourism but also serve as a vital engine for economic growth and job creation. 'It is an expression of our love for the country, our culture and our heritage. Malaysia will welcome the world with smiles, warmth and the genuine hospitality of our people.' Reaffirming the government's dedication to comprehensive reforms under the Malaysia Madani framework, Anwar said development must remain people-focused and rooted in values such as justice, dignity and compassion. 'Infrastructure development is not just about mega-projects like the East Coast Rail Link and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. 'We are prioritising essential public services – upgrading schools, enhancing hospitals and improving transport networks.' He added that economic restructuring would continue, with emphasis on attracting high-quality investments, empowering SMEs, accelerating innovation and technology and ensuring that every Malaysian, regardless of race or background, has a fair shot at success. Touching on national unity, Anwar stressed that cohesion is not a luxury but a necessity in an unpredictable world. 'In a world of rapid change and rising challenges, unity is indispensable. All efforts to strengthen national integration will be intensified to ensure that no one is left behind in our shared pursuit of a brighter future.' He expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the King's wise and unifying leadership. 'May Allah SWT continue to bless His Majesty to reign with strength, health and enduring wisdom. 'The people reaffirm their steadfast loyalty to His Majesty and remain united in shared commitment to the prosperity and progress of our beloved nation.'
