JAKIM plans an innovation centre to integrate AI and robotics into halal processes, helping MSMEs and expanding into new global markets.
PUTRAJAYA: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to strengthen the national halal industry.
Director-General Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee said JAKIM plans to develop a high-technology reference hub called the International Halal Innovation and Technology Centre.
Implementation of the centre is expected to begin this year.
“The centre will expose the public to the halal industry and the technologies used, including the latest innovations in slaughtering processes and halal food production that are fast, efficient and profitable, without compromising syariah requirements,” he said.
Sirajuddin stated that adopting AI and robotics in halal processes is inevitable but requires a common platform involving industry, tech experts, and religious authorities.
He added that JAKIM is strengthening cooperation with mentoring agencies to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) understand and comply with halal certification.
International interest in Malaysian halal products is growing from markets like China, Mexico, and Latin America.
Sirajuddin noted that language barriers remain a major challenge for effective trade negotiations in new markets.
Efforts are underway to identify intermediaries to help Malaysian halal products enter markets in Eastern Europe and Latin America.
In a related development, the government plans to establish the Malaysia International Islamic Faith Academy.
Sirajuddin said this academy will consolidate Islamic jurisprudence research from local universities into an accessible reference centre.
This initiative aims to provide authentic sources to the public and curb misinformation contradicting the Ahl Sunnah Wal Jamaah doctrine.
“We want to bring them forward so they can be referenced by the public and serve as authoritative sources, including for technologies such as AI,” he said.
