By Alieya Aqilah
ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Johor state government is set to launch the Johor Halal Development Plan 2030 by March this year, marking a significant milestone in the state’s Halal industry.
State Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid stated that the working paper for the plan is in its final stage, with RM800,000 allocated for its implementation through PIJ Halal Ventures, a subsidiary of Perbadanan Islam Johor (PIJ) Holdings.
“The Halal industry in Johor must progress rapidly. It would be a missed opportunity if we didn’t act, and I am confident there will be good news at the launch in March,” he told reporters after officiating the 2024 Johor Kindergarten Khatam Quran event.
According to Mohd Fared, the plan aims to support the local Halal industry by streamlining the application process for Halal certification, particularly benefiting small-scale businesses.
He emphasized that the initiative will empower local enterprises, ensure adherence to global Halal standards, and boost consumer confidence in Johor-made products.
During the tabling of the state Budget 2025 last November, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced the RM800,000 allocation to enhance the state’s Halal industry in collaboration with PIJ Holdings.
The Johor Halal Development Plan 2030 will focus on key areas including Halal Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Muslim-friendly homestays, an Integrated Halal Logistics System and Platform, and the i-Mesra System.
In a separate development, Mohd Fared mentioned that the Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) is closely monitoring the education of children from GISB Holdings (GISBH) families who are currently under the care of the Social Welfare Department (JKM).
He further noted that the state government has introduced monthly financial aid for GISBH families registered with JAINJ, particularly for those seeking rehabilitation and support.
“This initiative was introduced as many individuals lost their jobs due to enforcement operations. Therefore, the state government, through the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ), has taken responsibility by providing monthly financial aid, but only for those who return and register with us,” he added.
Sourced: The Sun
