Malaysia is strengthening its position in the global halal market through targeted support for small and medium enterprises. The Halal Development Corporation Bhd (HDC) has launched the Halal Home Grown Champion – Sourcing Partnership Program (HSPP), a multi-faceted initiative designed to elevate local businesses to international standards. Since its introduction in 2020, the program has provided crucial development services, helping nearly 200 companies advance toward global market entry.
The program offers four key areas of facilitation to address the diverse needs of growing businesses. One core component assists manufacturers in obtaining critical international certifications, such as HACCP and ISO 22000, over a six-month period. This process involves improving internal systems and processes, which builds client confidence and trust. Another six-month facilitation focuses on digital branding, where SMEs receive coaching to optimize online campaigns, enhance brand visibility, and effectively broaden their audience reach to boost sales.
Product development represents a third facilitation area, with a specific emphasis on packaging improvements. This five-month program helps SMEs redesign their packaging to meet buyer requirements, making products more appealing for both domestic and international markets. The newest addition to the program is training in environment, social, and governance (ESG) practices. As global markets increasingly prioritize sustainability, this training helps SMEs align with international standards, allowing them to access new consumer segments that value ESG factors.
According to HDC Chief Executive Officer Hairol Ariffein Sahari, the program has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially focusing on a single facilitation scope, HSPP has expanded to include ESG practices and enhanced international certification support, which now incorporates consultancy services. The main objective is to strengthen the global competitiveness of local halal offerings, creating opportunities for SMEs to become suppliers for large global retailers and multinational corporations.
The program’s impact is reflected in tangible successes, including increased sales revenue, new business proposals, and successful first-time halal exports. By pushing SMEs to become more export-oriented, the initiative helps accelerate business growth and fortify Malaysia’s halal supply chain ecosystem. To be eligible, companies must be Malaysian-registered, hold valid halal certification, have annual sales between RM300,000 and RM50 million, and have been operational for at least three years. Registration is available online, supporting the next wave of halal industry champions.