The University of Science Malaysia (USM) and Penang International Halal Hub (PIHH) Development Sdn Bhd (Halal Penang) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch the world’s first halal pharmacopeia in 2020. The halal pharmacopeia would list ingredients categorized as halal, including chemicals and non-chemicals to make it easier for consumers to identify the halal products in the market.
The MoU was signed by USM Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Faisal Rafiq Mahamd Adikan and PIHH chairman and Penang State International and Domestic Trade, Consumer Affairs and Entrepreneurship Development Committee Chairman Datuk Abdul Halim Hussain, on behalf of Halal Penang.
USM Advanced Medical and Dental Institute Director Professor Syed Azhar Syed Sulaiman said USM through its Halal Studies in Services, Research and Training (HASRAT) expected to launch the halal pharmacopeia module in 2020. Professor Syed stated that USM will publish the halal pharmacopeia module online as well as in hard copy. The online website can be accessed through a paid subscription in order to help generate revenue. The halal pharmacopeia is expected to benefit not only Malaysians but all industry players and consumers worldwide.
This initiative is in line with the Malaysian government’s efforts to develop the halal economy. In 2018 Malaysia’s total halal exports stood at around USD 10 billion, while Muslims globally spent USD 2.1 trillion across food, beverage and lifestyle sectors in 2017. This number is forecast to reach USD 3 trillion by 2023.
(Sources: The Sun Daily; BERNAMA)
