Kuala Lumpur – The Taiwan Halal Integrity Development Association (THIDA) has taken part in one of the world’s most influential gatherings of Halal industry leaders, the Global Halal Summit (GHaS) 2025, held from 16 to 18 September in Kuala Lumpur.

The summit, organized by Malaysia’s Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM), brought together hundreds of delegates, including Halal certification bodies, accreditation authorities, policymakers, regulators, industry players, researchers, and academics. The event aimed to strengthen international collaboration and harmonize Halal standards across different regions.

Strengthening Technical and Shariah Auditing

At the heart of the summit were two key programmes: the Halal Certification Bodies Convention (HCBC) and the International Halal Technical Capacity Development Program (IHTCDP). These sessions covered both technical auditing, such as Halal Control Points (HCP), risk management, and audit documentation, as well as Shariah auditing, which focuses on fatwa implementation and ensuring compliance with Islamic principles.

Five representatives from THIDA participated in these programs, gaining exposure to the latest developments in both auditing systems. Organizers said this dual approach is critical for maintaining not only the technical robustness of certification but also its religious integrity.

Broader Engagement at MIHAS

The summit was closely linked to the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), a major annual trade exhibition at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). THIDA delegates attended MIHAS to explore a range of sectors, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, modest fashion, Islamic finance, logistics, e-commerce, and tourism.

MIHAS, which runs alongside the summit each year, acts as a global business-to-business platform connecting Halal exporters, manufacturers, and service providers with buyers and distributors worldwide.

Building Global Links

According to THIDA, the summit provided an opportunity not only to strengthen technical and Shariah expertise but also to build stronger relationships with international Halal certification bodies.

“The Global Halal Summit allowed us to exchange perspectives with counterparts from different countries and to contribute to the ongoing discussion on harmonising Halal standards globally,” a THIDA representative said during the event.

Malaysia’s Role in the Global Halal Industry

Malaysia has positioned itself as a global hub for Halal development, and JAKIM’s annual summit is considered one of the most important platforms for shaping Halal policy and practice internationally.

Observers say THIDA’s participation reflects Taiwan’s growing interest in engaging with the global Halal economy, particularly as demand rises in sectors beyond food, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, and Islamic finance.