Official Opening of The “8th Penang International Halal Expo & Conference” (PIHEC)

Speech by Chief Minister of Penang

At The Official Opening of The “8th Penang International Halal Expo & Conference” (PIHEC)

24 February 2017

I would like to say welcome to all our guests today to the 8th Penang International Halal Expo & Conference (PIHEC) here at the Spice Arena. My warm greetings to our international dignitaries and representatives from Japan, Korea, China, Brunei Darussalam, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and from the Middle East.

Today at the sPICE Arena, we have proudly gathered 330 businesses and industry players comprising local and international companies, business associations and government sectors.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

I was made aware of various exciting and opportune business programmes and platforms here.

There is also, the 4th Halal Chef challenge event taking place highlighting the culinary arts and talents participating in the growth of Halal food fraternity.

PIHEC is also a stage where fellow academia and captains of industry will share solutions and ideas for a global sustainable living based on this year’s theme of “Halal Lifestyle”.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

Since its beginning, the State has outlined a strong policy of Competency, Accountability & Transparency (CAT) principle which helps the growth of the halal industry in Penang. We hope that everyone sees the potential of the global halal market estimated at USD3 trillion, where even non-Muslim countries like Japan, Korea, Taiwan and China are putting in substantial investment to sell to the Muslim community. Trade, not war, would be beneficial to all.

My heartfelt thanks to the organizers especially Penang State EXCO YB Dato' Abdul Malik and everyone involved in organising the Penang International Halal Expo & Conference 2017 successfully for three days at the SPICE Arena.

Thank you.