The passing of Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi marks the end of an era for Malaysia—a time defined by visionary leadership, compassion, and a deep commitment to national development. Among his many contributions, one of the most transformative was his role in elevating Malaysia’s Halal industry into a globally recognized economic force.
During his tenure as Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah saw the Halal sector not merely as a religious obligation, but as an opportunity to position Malaysia at the forefront of a value-driven global economy. He believed that the principles of Halal—cleanliness, ethics, quality, and integrity—could transcend religious boundaries and benefit both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. This belief formed the foundation of a national strategy that would redefine Malaysia’s place in the world.
In 2006, under his leadership, the government established the Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC)—a pioneering initiative that placed Malaysia among the first nations to create a dedicated agency for Halal development. This move marked a turning point. HDC became the central body coordinating Malaysia’s efforts to streamline policies, attract investment, and expand international partnerships in the Halal sector.
Tun Abdullah also played a pivotal role in strengthening JAKIM’s Halal certification, ensuring it would be internationally recognized and trusted. His administration invested in enhancing the quality, transparency, and credibility of Malaysia’s Halal standards, making them among the most respected globally. This bolstered Malaysia’s exports, opened new markets, and helped shape a global benchmark for Halal assurance.
Perhaps most significantly, Tun Abdullah integrated the Halal industry into Malaysia’s broader economic development agenda. For the first time, Halal was not just a cultural or religious matter, but a core component of national growth. He envisioned Halal as a sector capable of creating jobs, driving innovation, and contributing meaningfully to GDP.
Under his guidance, Malaysia also began promoting research and development in Halal-related fields—ranging from food science and pharmaceuticals to logistics and services. This emphasis on innovation laid the groundwork for a more resilient and diversified Halal ecosystem, positioning Malaysia not just as a leader in certification, but also in thought, technology, and enterprise.
Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s legacy in the Halal sector remains unmatched. His foresight and inclusive approach have shaped Malaysia into a global Halal hub—a role the country continues to uphold today. As the nation mourns his loss, it also celebrates a leader whose vision and values continue to impact lives far beyond its borders.
May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. Al-Fatihah.
