PM Anwar Ibrahim announced earlier today that the halal status no longer simply means that the food or drink in question does not contain pork or alcohol.

According to him, the definition of halal has evolved over the past few decades, expanding beyond the avoiding of impermissible food.

"The traditional view of halal is no more. In the past, halal meant no pork or alcohol in the food.

"But today, halal also signifies (food) safety, cleanliness, and the use of sophisticated methods to avoid harmful products, he said when opening the Malaysia International Halal Showcase 2024 (Mihas) here today", he said. 

He emphasized that halal products have the potential to compete on a global scale, as the certification requires more rigorous standards than those typically recognized internationally.

He also noted that following halal standards benefits not just Muslims but individuals of all faiths.

"When we talk about halal, we are not discussing it solely from an Islamic perspective. It serves the interests of all Malaysians without discrimination.

"In this exhibition, you can see Muslims, Christians, Hindus and Buddhists all taking part as Malaysians, working together to ensure the success of the halal industry", he said.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz stated that Malaysia is targeting RM75 billion in halal exports, equivalent to 11% of the country's gross domestic product, by 2030.

He highlighted that last years halal exports, amounting to RM55 billion, significantly contributed to Malaysia's economic growth, with halal food and beverages making up RM29.4 billion of the total.

Recently, the proposal to mandate halal certification for all food establishments that do not serve pork and alcohol gained attention, following concerns raised by DAPs Seputeh MP Teresa Kok.

Kok later said the controversy was due to misunderstanding by various parties.