04-08-2025
Sarawak strengthens halal ecosystem with technical, audit training
(Front row, from sixth right) Firdaus and Hallman join guests, organising committee members, and participants for a photo session during the closing ceremony.
KUCHING (Aug 4): Fifteen participants have completed a seven-day training titled 'The Road to Halal Professional: Competency and Internal Audit Training', aimed at strengthening expertise in the halal industry.
The programme, which concluded on Saturday, was jointly organised by Sarawak Skills, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak Branch, and the Philippines' Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
It was supported by the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak (MEITD), the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (Mintred), and the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Chamber (Sara-Bif).
UiTM Sarawak Branch Rector, Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah, who officiated the closing, stated that the training was designed to deliver a blend of technical education, hands-on learning, and industry-focused capacity building, aligned with Malaysia's Department of Islamic Development (Jakim) standards.
The curriculum included lectures, site visits, and audit simulations, with participants touring certified halal facilities such as the Sara-Bif Restaurant, Halal Abattoir, and the Corned Beef Factory.
'For UiTM Sarawak Branch, this was more than just a training programme. It reflects our strategic commitment to strengthening the halal ecosystem both within Sarawak and internationally,' said Dr Firdaus in a statement.
He further noted that UiTM Sarawak is currently the only Jakim-recognised halal training provider in the state.
'We remain committed to advancing our role in the global halal movement,' he added.
Sarawak Skills executive director, Hallman Sabri, who also serves as chairman of the Federation of Malaysian Skills Development Centres, underscored the importance of cross-border knowledge exchange.
'Sarawak is proud to support partnerships that promote knowledge-sharing and professional growth.
'This programme is a prime example of how international cooperation can enhance halal industry standards,' he said.
Participants engaged in comprehensive training modules delivered by UiTM Sarawak's expert trainers, with facilitation from Sarawak Skills and coordination by TESDA.
The combination of expertise ensured a high-impact, practical learning experience that responds to the evolving demands of the global halal sector. audit Halal industry lead training