BAGAN DATUK, Jan 25 — Local halal food manufacturing companies play a strategic role, not only in supporting the domestic market, but also as Malaysia’s gateway to the global halal market.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the national halal food sector holds vast growth potential, with the global halal market currently valued at more than RM16.02 trillion and projected to expand to RM22.88 trillion by 2030.