Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized that halal food culture and values can serve as a significant asset and strength for the entire human civilization, not just the Muslim world. He highlighted that the growth of halal products and culture extends beyond religious or cultural implications, encompassing global economic and human welfare aspects.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Swapon made these remarks during a seminar titled ‘Think Halal, Grow Global,’ organized by the Malaysian High Commission in Dhaka, held at a city hotel. He noted the substantial global market potential for halal food, with consumers and investors eager to explore this sector’s opportunities.
Swapon stressed the shared values between Bangladesh and Malaysia in religious and social spheres, suggesting that both nations could collaboratively advance the halal industry and its global market presence by leveraging their common values, culture, and experience. He urged entrepreneurs, investors, traders, and related institutions to coordinate efforts to meet the rising global demand for halal products.
The minister underscored the necessity of creating proper ideas, information, knowledge, and specific business structures for investors. He expressed that effectively combining these elements would positively impact the market and enhance the acceptance of halal products among consumers.
Minister Swapon recalled Bangladesh Prime Minister’s recent visit to Malaysia, appreciating Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s warm welcome to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in Kuala Lumpur. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh to the Malaysian government and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
He further elaborated that Bangladesh-Malaysia relations are grounded not only in diplomatic contacts but also in shared values and mutual cooperation. The halal industry, he noted, could become a pivotal area for economic and diplomatic collaboration between the two countries.
The seminar also featured Malaysian High Commissioner in Dhaka Mohd Shuhada Othman and Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries President Anwar Shahid. Top businessmen, investors, entrepreneurs, and representatives from relevant sectors in both Bangladesh and Malaysia participated in the event.