Mondelēz Malaysia collaborates with HDC for Halal Integrity programme

Mondelēz Malaysia (Mondelēz), part of the global snacking powerhouse Mondelēz International, is collaborating with the Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC) to hold the first "Managing Halal Integrity" programme for small and medium enterprises (SME) in Malaysia.According to Mondelez, this is an initial step towards providing a broader support to the local SMEs. The programme is aimed at sharing useful knowledge in ensuring Halal integrity in the production of consumer goods and best practices in responding to potential issues.Raja Zalina Raja Safran (pictured right), head of corporate and government affairs at Mondelēz Malaysia expressed the importance of industry partnerships and the help of larger corporations in elevating Halal as an enabler to spur the growth of SMEs.  Halal is an important engine to support the company’s long term growth ambition, while sustaining its mission in creating moments of joy through its power brands including Cadbury, Oreo, Chipsmore, Jacobs and Twisties to name a few.“As the maker of Malaysia’s top favourite snacks, we take Halal matter very seriously to ensure that the cultural and religious interests of our consumers are not compromised in any way. All our plants in Malaysia are certified Halal by Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) and 20% of products manufactured here are exported to 16 countries worldwide. That is why we are continuously improving on our already stringent procedures to bring products with the highest standard of safety and quality. Extending our commitment and best practices in Halal compliance that we have gathered over the years, we are in the position to contribute to Malaysia’s vision to be a global Halal hub,” she added.Through the "Managing Halal Integrity" programme, participating SMEs are provided with the latest updates and strategic plans charting the growth of Malaysia’s Halal industry.Hanisofian Alias (pictured left) , general manager, Industry Development of HDC said:“We are pleased that established companies like Mondelēz Malaysia are coming together to help boost the awareness of Halal to the SMEs. Their insights and experience in Halal, which has become an important part in today’s business environment, will benefit smaller companies particularly those who are interested in expanding their business in halal products and services.  SMEs need the local and large companies (LLC) to support them in many ways from supply of raw material to branding and promotion,” he said.According to the Global Islamic Economic Report, it is estimated that the worldwide spending on Halal food and lifestyle products is expected to reach USD3.7 trillion (RM16.5 trillion) by 2019, while the Halal food market alone is expected to account for 21.2% of the entire global food expenditure.