Serpong --- The 3rd Halal-20 or H20 event organized by the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJPH) of the Ministry of Religious Affairs has finished. The global halal forum produced important outputs, namely the signing of 52 Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) between BPJPH and Foreign Halal Certification Bodies from 24 countries, and also the Communiqué on Strengthening the Global Halal Ecosystem from all delegates present.
The achievement of 52 MRAs increases the number of MRA achievements that previously existed by 40 MRAs, so that currently there are 92 MRAs. Chairman of BPJPH Muhammad Aqil Irham said that achieving 52 MRAs at the same time at this year's H20 forum was a major achievement as an important step in strengthening the synergy of the global halal ecosystem.
"The H20-2024 Forum is a strategic event for us to expand our network and deepen our insight into how technological innovation and digitalization can be an advantage for Halal Stakeholders. Especially for production and consumption responsibilities." said the Chairman of BPJPH, Muhammad Aqil Irham, when closing the 2024 H20 event, on Thursday evening (10/10/2024).
"I want to share a story about how technological innovation has an impact on our services, which has a significant impact on quantity and quality. In 2021, when I was inaugurated as Head of BPJPH, the condition (of BPJPH services) was still completely manual," he said.
"So in my opinion, that's what needs to be changed. I said, "We can't be left behind by other ministries and public service institutions." That's why we started. Imagine, how BPJPH with a workforce of only 200 people can issue certificates for 5 million products. How can that be? I can sign 1 million times. Technology innovation." he added
Another result of the H20 forum was the implementation of halal product assurance education related to the implementation of technological innovation in the development of the halal industry ecosystem through the International Conference on Halal Traceability. Also, through the Indonesian Halal Seminar to update JPH regulations.
"I think it is time for us to move forward to utilize technological innovation and realize traceability in the global halal supply chain. I am sure that during this event, we have all gained in-depth interactive discussions through the exchange of knowledge and experience between us. This is certainly a great opportunity to strengthen our collaboration." continued Aqil.
"Please enjoy various kinds of typical Indonesian dishes at this dinner: Gado-gado, Soto, Nasi kebuli, Mango Pudding, and others. We hope that this event will further broaden your insight into Indonesian culinary tastes. I also want to apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced during this event. In closing, thank you for your great contribution and hope to see you on Halal 20, 2025." he ended.
The communique as a joint agreement of all H20 delegates was read by the Chief Officer of the American Halal Foundation, James Chambers, containing three key areas for developing the global halal ecosystem, namely:
(1) Building Global Halal Connectivity H20 emphasizes strengthening the global commitment to create an interconnected halal ecosystem. This includes encouraging mutual recognition and collaboration among stakeholders to address the unique challenges posed by differences in halal standards, services, and product development across countries.
(2) Update on Indonesia's Global Halal Policy In October 2024, Indonesia will implement mandatory halal certification. This policy also aims to harmonize halal standards globally, make halal certified products more accessible and provide greater clarity for international partners.
(3) Embracing Technology for Growth Integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, and IT into halal policies is essential for sustainable industry growth. These innovations will drive transparency, increase accessibility, and build trust in the global halal ecosystem, improving traceability and efficiency across the supply chain.
Based on these three key areas, H20 also produced a "Call Action" to be implemented together, namely: "The H20 2024 Communiqué invites governments, halal certification bodies, industry, and stakeholders around the world to join in embracing openness and technological innovation. This collaboration will help strengthen the global halal ecosystem, drive sustainable growth, improve industry practices, and deliver better outcomes for consumers. Together, we can achieve globally recognized and consistent halal practices that benefit all stakeholders."
Even though the H20 conference has closed, the series of H20 activities will still continue, with the following day on October 11 2024 continuing with tours to tourist locations, as a promotion of natural tourism and halal culinary to foreign delegates. Coaching clinic and halal expo activities will also be held until October 12.