Singapore, September 24–25, 2025 — The Hilton Singapore Hotel played host to a landmark international gathering this week, as the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) unveiled its plan to shift halal certification into the digital era.

The two-day seminar brought together halal certification bodies (HCBs) from across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. At the center of the event was MUIS’s announcement that it would soon replace its long-standing paper-based certificates with a digital model powered by QR codes.

From Paper to QR Codes

For years, halal certification in Singapore has relied on traditional paper documents. MUIS explained that the move to digital certificates will reduce fraud, streamline verification, and offer instant transparency for both businesses and consumers.

“This is more than just technology,” said one MUIS official during the opening session. “It is about trust, efficiency, and keeping pace with the expectations of a modern halal economy.”

Under the new framework, each halal certificate will be linked to an official database and verified simply by scanning a QR code. MUIS plans to roll out the system gradually, giving businesses and auditors time to adapt.

A Meeting of Global Minds

While the launch of the digital system was the headline, the seminar also became a space for deeper conversations about the future of halal governance. Delegates from various countries shared how their own systems are managed, the challenges they face in cross-border recognition, and how technology could bridge gaps between differing standards.

Panel discussions explored harmonization of halal requirements and the difficulties of maintaining credibility in an increasingly complex global market. Between sessions, networking opportunities gave participants the chance to form new alliances and strengthen existing ties.

Taiwan’s Voice in the Conversation

Among those taking part was the Taiwan Halal Integrity Development Association (THIDA), which sent two delegates, including its Vice President. THIDA’s involvement reflected Taiwan’s growing role in international halal affairs and its interest in how digitalization could support both domestic certification and global cooperation.

Speaking on the sidelines of the seminar, one THIDA delegate noted, “Being here allows us not only to learn from Singapore’s initiative but also to share our own experiences. Smaller halal bodies like ours benefit greatly from this kind of international exchange.”

Building Bridges for the Future

By the time the seminar closed on September 25, participants had left with more than just insights into MUIS’s new system. There was also a sense that the conversations in Singapore marked an important step toward closer collaboration among halal authorities worldwide.

For MUIS, the event underscored its ambition to position Singapore as a leader in halal innovation. For others, including THIDA, it was an opportunity to ensure their voices are heard as the global halal landscape begins to embrace digital transformation.