OUR VISION
To establish sustainable socioeconomic development by leveraging economic development spin-offs, fostering job creation, and nurturing self-employment opportunities. Through the development of robust soft and hard infrastructures, we aim to uplift both Muslim and non-Muslim communities in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and drive progress towards a thriving halal economy.
We envision a future where economic growth serves as a catalyst for positive social transformation, improving the lives of individuals and communities alike. By fostering an inclusive environment that supports entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development, we aim to create a diverse range of employment opportunities, empowering individuals to contribute actively to the socioeconomic fabric of our society. Central to our vision is the development of comprehensive soft and hard infrastructures. These infrastructures encompass educational and vocational training programs, access to financial services, advanced technological systems, transportation networks, and other essential facilities that enable individuals and businesses to thrive. Our aim is to provide a solid foundation for economic activities, ensuring equitable opportunities for both Muslims and non-Muslims to participate in and benefit from the halal economy.
By promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and inclusive growth, we aspire to position the AEC as a leading hub for halal economic activities. Through sustainable socioeconomic development, we seek to enhance the well-being and prosperity of individuals, foster social cohesion, and contribute to the overall advancement of the region. Our vision is underpinned by our commitment to ethical practices, social responsibility, and the preservation of cultural diversity. By embracing the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and economic empowerment, we strive to create a future where the halal economy serves as a driving force for shared prosperity and harmonious coexistence within the ASEAN region.
OUR MISSION
To drive the development of the halal economy by leveraging Brunei's unique position as the only country in ASEAN and BIMP –EAGA to implement Syariah Law. Through strategic collaboration with regional partners and the establishment of the Special Halal Economic Zones (SHEZ), we aim to create essential products on the global value chain and capitalize on the standards and policies set by the Brunei-Malaysia-Indonesia-The Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area Vision 2025 and MABIMS the informal Annual Meeting of Religious Ministers of Islamic countries in ASEAN consist of Brunei Darussalam, Republic of Indonesia, The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (PMO) and Islamic Council Republic of Singapore providing Islamic guidance and references mainly for the Islamic countries and minority Muslims in the countries in ASEAN region on Social, Economic and Welfare.
Our primary objective is to establish Brunei Bay as the inaugural SHEZ, serving as a catalyst for economic growth and attracting investments in halal-related industries. Additionally, we aim to expand the reach of SHEZs to strategic locations across BIMP EAGA and the ASEAN region, creating a network of interconnected halal hubs that foster trade and collaboration by adopting the principle of Environment Social and Governance.
We recognize the importance of international trade agreements and their potential impact on the halal economy. Thus, we are committed to comprehending and harnessing the benefits of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CP-TPP) as a gateway for the sustainable development of the halal economy.
Through our endeavors, we strive to position the halal economy as a significant contributor to regional prosperity, job creation, and socio-economic development. By promoting ethical practices, ensuring compliance with Syariah Law, and fostering a conducive environment for business growth, we aim to establish the BIMP EAGA region and ASEAN as globally recognized centers for halal products and services.
CAPITALIZING BIMP-EAGA VISION 2025
Driving Economic Growth through Halal Economy Development
BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025 is a comprehensive policy framework aimed at promoting robust economic growth in the region. As part of this vision, our strategic initiative is to position the EAGA region as a prominent economic platform for advancing the Halal Economy. Spearheaded by the private sector, International H (Halal) Trade Hub & Services Sdn Bhd (IHTHS) takes the lead in branding the East ASEAN Growth Area (EAGA) region as an International Halal Trade Hub, with a strong focus on Shariah-compliant value stream and trade services. Additionally, IHTHS actively promotes the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) as an ideal platform for industry development and production base for the Global Islamic Market.
BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025 is a comprehensive policy framework aimed at promoting robust economic growth in the region. As part of this vision, our strategic initiative is to position the EAGA region as a prominent economic platform for advancing the Halal Economy. Spearheaded by the private sector, International H (Halal) Trade Hub & Services Sdn Bhd (IHTHS) takes the lead in branding the East ASEAN Growth Area (EAGA) region as an International Halal Trade Hub, with a strong focus on Shariah-compliant value stream and trade services. Additionally, IHTHS actively promotes the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) as an ideal platform for industry development and production base for the Global Islamic Market.
IHTHS with its regional strategic partners (IHTHS Team) will actively advocate for the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) as a key driver for industry growth and a production base for the global Islamic market. By fostering collaboration and cooperation among ASEAN member states, IHTHS Team will contributes to the development of a robust ecosystem that supports the expansion of Islamic industries and production capacities. This concerted effort strengthens the region's position as a key player in the global Halal market, fostering economic growth and attracting investment opportunities.
Through its comprehensive approach, IHTHS plays a crucial role in implementing the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025 and realizing its economic objectives. By leveraging the private sector's expertise and leadership, IHTHS Team will drives the development of the Halal Economy in the EAGA region, facilitating trade, promoting value-added services, and positioning the region as a hub for Shariah-compliant businesses with the development of the special halal economic zones in various strategic places.
In conclusion, capitalizing the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025 provides a solid foundation for promoting economic growth in the region. IHTHS Team, as a key driver in this endeavor, focuses on branding the EAGA region as an International Halal Trade Hub, with a strong emphasis on Shariah-compliant value stream and trade services. Through its initiatives, IHTHS Team will
supports the growth of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) as an industry and production base for the global Islamic market. Together, these efforts contribute to the realization of the Halal Economy's potential and drive sustainable economic development in the BIMP-EAGA region.
The Missing Element – The Private Sector
"With the private sector taking the lead in regional development, there is a primary focus on branding the BIMP EAGA region as an International Halal Trade and supply chain hub, emphasizing on Sharia Compliance Value Stream and Trade services. Concurrently, efforts are directed towards promoting the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) as a robust platform for industry growth and a production base for the global Islamic market. Through strategic initiatives, the private sector is driving economic progress, fostering a conducive environment for Halal trade, and positioning the BIMP EAGA region as a prominent player in the global Islamic economy."
THE ECONOMIC PLATFORMS
The utilization of ASEAN, BIMP EAGA, MABIMS, and CPTPP as economic platforms for halal trade and supply chain offers several advantages and holds significant potential for the growing Muslim market and the development of the halal economy.
1
Market Access
ASEAN, as a regional economic community, provides access to a large consumer base comprising diverse Muslim populations. BIMP EAGA, as a sub-regional economic cooperation initiative, further expands market access to Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, which have substantial Muslim populations. This access allows businesses to tap into the growing demand for halal products and services.
2
Trade Facilitation
ASEAN, BIMP EAGA, and CPTPP promote trade facilitation measures, including the reduction of trade barriers, harmonization of standards, and simplification of customs procedures. These initiatives streamline trade processes, making it easier for halal products to move across borders and enhancing supply chain efficiency.
3
Collaboration and Synergy
The collaborative nature of ASEAN, BIMP EAGA, and MABIMS fosters cooperation among member countries, leading to synergistic opportunities for the development of the halal economy. This collaboration enables the sharing of best practices, knowledge exchange, and joint initiatives to enhance the overall competitiveness of halal businesses in the region.
4
Regulatory Harmonization
MABIMS with ASEAN can encourage regulatory harmonization and the alignment of standards to facilitate trade. This is particularly relevant for halal certification and compliance, as consistent
standards across countries simplify market entry and enhance consumer confidence. Harmonization efforts reduce barriers and enable businesses to navigate the complexities of halal trade more effectively.
5
Investor Confidence
ASEAN, BIMP EAGA, and CPTPP promote a conducive investment environment through frameworks that protect investors and ensure fair treatment. This instills confidence in businesses looking to invest in halal-related industries and supply chains. Increased investment in the halal sector contributes to its growth and enhances the competitiveness of the overall economy.
6
Global Integration
CPTPP, a comprehensive trade agreement, expands market access beyond the ASEAN region to countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand. This global integration presents opportunities for halal businesses to reach wider markets, tapping into the growing Muslim consumer base around the world.
By leveraging the advantages offered by ASEAN, BIMP EAGA, MABIMS, and CPTPP, businesses can benefit from an expanded market, streamlined trade processes, collaborative initiatives, regulatory harmonization, enhanced investor confidence, and global integration. These economic platforms serve as catalysts for the development of the halal economy, supporting its growth and enabling businesses to capitalize on the increasing demand for halal products and services in the Muslim market.
SPECIAL HALAL ECONOMIC ZONE
A special Halal economic zone as such is a group of Halal parks or Halal industrial zones and supply chain hubs, an ecosystem with a designated area where businesses and industries related to Halal products and services are concentrated. These zones are established to promote and facilitate the development, production, trade, and export of Halal goods and services. Here are some key features and benefits of special Halal economic zones:
Special Halal economic zones provide a platform for businesses to thrive in the Halal industry by offering dedicated infrastructure, regulatory support, market access, and collaborative opportunities. They serve as catalysts for the development of the Halal economy, supporting economic growth, job creation, and increased trade within the Halal sector.
INVESTING IN BRUNEI BAY SPECIAL HALAL ECONOMIC ZONE
Brunei Bay holds immense potential to emerge as a Special Halal Economic Zone, presenting an exceptional investment opportunity driven by its strategic advantages. The convergence of its advantageous location, substantial Muslim population, and favorable geopolitical landscape positions it as a highly attractive prospect for investors.
Firstly, Brunei Bay's geographical location provides a distinct advantage. Situated in a strategic position within Southeast Asia, it offers excellent connectivity to major international markets. Its proximity to key trade routes and established transportation infrastructure facilitates seamless access to global markets, rendering it an ideal hub for halal products and services.
Brunei Bay boasts a significant Muslim population, which enhances the viability and potential market size of a Special Halal Economic Zone. The presence of a large consumer base, encompassing both local residents and regional visitors, creates a robust demand for halal products and services across various sectors. This presents a unique opportunity for businesses operating within the halal industry to thrive and achieve substantial growth.
The geopolitical landscape of Brunei Bay shared amongst Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak and Federal Territory of Labuan contributes to its investment appeal. For Brunei to lead it enjoys political stability, sound governance, and a business- friendly environment, making it conducive for investors seeking a secure and reliable location. The implementation of Syariah law and the country's commitment to promoting Islamic values and adherence to halal standards further bolsters its position as an attractive destination for halal-related investments.
By capitalizing on Brunei Bay's strategic advantages and establishing it as a Special Halal Economic Zone, investors can benefit from a dynamic and thriving ecosystem. This includes access to a diverse range of halal industries, a supportive regulatory framework, opportunities for collaboration and innovation, and a platform to tap into the rapidly growing global halal market.
Factors and Considerations
The possibility of Brunei Bay becoming a Special Halal Economic Zone will be one off the best investment to go for due to its strategic advantages such as location, huge Muslim population and the good geopolitics situation. To do it will depend on various factors and considerations. Herewith are some points to consider:
Government Support
The establishment of a Special Halal Economic Zone requires strong support and initiatives from the government. The government of Brunei would need to demonstrate its commitment to developing the Halal industry and promoting the zone's potential. This includes creating favorable policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment incentives to attract businesses and investors.
Infrastructure Development
Developing the necessary infrastructure within Brunei Bay would be essential for a Special Halal Economic Zone. This includes constructing specialized facilities, such as processing plants, storage warehouses, testing laboratories, logistics centers, and trade exhibition venues. Adequate transportation and connectivity infrastructure would also be crucial for facilitating trade and attracting businesses.
Halal Certification and Quality Assurance
To establish Brunei Bay as a Special Halal Economic Zone, stringent Halal certification and quality assurance mechanisms need to be in place. Collaborating with recognized Halal certification bodies and implementing robust monitoring and compliance systems would be essential to ensure the authenticity and integrity of Halal products and services within the zone.
Industry Clusters and Value Chain Integration
Developing industry clusters and promoting value chain integration within the zone can enhance the competitiveness and efficiency of businesses operating in the Halal sector. This involves encouraging collaboration and cooperation among different stakeholders, including producers, suppliers, distributors, and service providers, to create a cohesive and dynamic ecosystem.
Market Access and Trade Promotion
Brunei Bay's strategic location and proximity to international shipping routes can be leveraged to facilitate trade and market access for Halal products. Strengthening trade partnerships, organizing trade fairs and exhibitions, and actively promoting Brunei Bay as a hub for Halal trade can attract international buyers and investors.
Research and Development
Fostering research and development activities within the Special Halal Economic Zone can drive innovation and improve product development in the Halal industry. Establishing research institutions, promoting collaboration between academia and industry, and supporting technological advancements can enhance the competitiveness of businesses within the zone.
Stakeholder Engagement
Engaging stakeholders, including businesses, industry associations, and local communities, is crucial for the success of a Special Halal Economic Zone. Involving them in the decision-making process, addressing their needs and concerns, and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment can contribute to the sustainable development of the zone.
It's important to note that the establishment of a Special Halal Economic Zone requires careful planning, collaboration, and long-term commitment from Brunei Bay stakeholders. Assessing the feasibility, conducting market studies, and seeking input from experts and industry players would be necessary to determine the viability and potential success of such a zone in Brunei Bay.