World Halal Research Summit 2011

The Overview of the Forum will be:

WORLD HALAL RESEARCH SUMMIT 2011

The 4th World Halal Research Summit (WHR) 2011 from 6th – 7th April 2011 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre will feature conference, poster presentation, exhibition and research commercialization with the theme, Catalyst for Growth in the Halal Industry. The objective of WHR 2011 is to inspire innovation within the area of Halal Research by providing an international stage for intellectuals and researchers. WHR 2011 is an international research event which brings together scientists, researchers, scholars, academicians alike to discuss and exchange ideas on new research findings, emerging technologies, trends, issues and challenges in the global Halal industry.

Through Halal Research and development findings, Malaysia is able to strengthen and achieve its vision as the global halal hub and is more able to assist as well as support formulation of fatwas, reinforce traceability and identify new potential for Halal in both products and processes. Through WHR, Malaysia will be recognized as the Centre for Halal Innovation and R&D Commercialization. In line with the effort to focus on a more holistic approach to develop a "halal eco-system" through research and development, HDC aims to move the industry forward and establish Malaysia as the leading Halal R&D Centre.

This Summit will be a foundation to stimulate technology commercialization in expanding the halal industry for the benefit of the world. The event can foster the development of knowledge-based human capital which is vital for the growth of the halal industry in Malaysia and at the international level. Innovation will generate added value and widen the employment base. As such innovation is imperative within the area of halal, especially in halal research as we seek new and improved products and services to enhance the quality of life of the people, as well as in making the world a better place for future generations. This is certainly in line with the Government’s policy in promoting innovation and the country’s New Economic Model.

 Many prominent speakers that  play a vital role in the International Food/Cosmetic Industry will be speaking at the forum.

To name just a few I found interesting to do some follow up research on:

PROFESSOR AMEENAH GURIB-FAKIM 

Director,
Center for Phytotheraphy and Research (CEPHYR), MAURITIUS

About her paper :

Herbal Products : An engine of Growth for The Halal Industry

The paper will deliberate more on the importance of herbal/alternative medicine in health care industry.

Abstract :

The World Health Organisation reports that over 80% of the world's population depend on herbal medicine for their primary health care. Recent trends have shown that people living in the developed countries are also increasingly turning to herbal medicines. The growth rate for this sector has been estimated to be around 15% annually. While the trend is a good sign for business, it has been observed that the ethical consumerism is demanding for increased certification for these products. The Halal certification is one such label that could boost sales not only for food and medicinal items but also for green cosmetics. This presentation will focus on some of the existing certifications and how the Halal label can boost acceptance and promote sales'.

DATO' GHAZI SHEIKH RAMLI 

President,
Malaysia Association of Creativity and Innovation (MACRI), MALAYSIA

About the paper :
Enhancing R&D in The Halal Industry

The paper will deliberate more on strategizing Malaysia as a global halal hub through halal research and innovation.

Abstract :

Understanding fully the true meaning of creativity and innovation as well as research, development and commercialisation is a critical Pre-requisite towards future sustainable growth. The current development in the Halal industry is very much centered in the food and Pharmaceutical industry. There is now an urgent need to focus more on the value-added products and services in the non-food industry such as tourism and education which in itself could generate lots of spin-offs. Tourism as an example involves transport, hotel, food, shopping, education, entertainment, health, sports and leisure business.

In line with the government’s intention to make Malaysia a global Halal Hub by 2020, it is strongly recommended that a Global Halal Research and Innovation Institute (GHaRII ) be established immediately in Cyberjaya and develop it as the next Silicon Valley of the Islamic world ! Present Research bodies at the two universities as well as present and future Halal parks should work hand-in-hand with GHaRII to ensure maximum Effectiveness. The research scope should be both traditional and Non-traditional Halal industry and the innovation adopted should be both Incremental as well as disruptive.

As a strategic approach, GHaRII should also work closely with the soon to be set up "Agensi Inovasi Malaysia" under the prime Minister's department in order to ensure maximum co-ordination of all R&D activities in the country for innovation and commercialisation. One of the key functions of the agency is "to conduct inquiries, survey and analysis of data, research and development relating to innovation and the National innovation eco-system".

Strategic collaboration with well established international research Institutes as well as industries is a must. The entire Halal Ecosystem should also embrace the latest practice of "Open Innovation" as well as "Design Thinking" as a culture. There is absolutely no option: Innovate or Die!

This is a much needed discussion and more research and labeling needs to be done to provide an easier way for those who wish to enjoy the benefits and blessings of a halal lifestyle. Thank You Malaysia for hosting this wonderful event, may it's initiative be fruitful for all involved.