PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) has supported efforts to strengthen trade links between Malaysia and Palestine by facilitating engagement between the Palestine Standards Institution (PSI), Halal Development Corporation (HDC) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim).
PSI has since been recognised by Jakim as a recognised foreign halal certification body in Palestine.
The recognition marks an important milestone for Palestinian businesses seeking to access the Malaysian market, providing a pathway for eligible Palestinian products to meet Malaysia’s halal certification requirements.
These include food and beverages, raw materials, cosmetics and personal care products, and pharmaceuticals, subject to applicable Malaysian import and regulatory requirements. Jakim conducted the assessment remotely rather than through an on-site audit, allowing PSI’s application to proceed.
MICCI president Christina Tee said: “Facilitating international trade is an important part of MICCI’s role in connecting businesses, institutions and relevant authorities to help address market-access barriers and create new opportunities. PSI’s recognition by Jakim is a meaningful milestone in strengthening trade links between Malaysia and Palestine.
“By bringing the relevant stakeholders together, we hope to support Palestinian businesses in reaching new markets and building stronger commercial links with Malaysia.” The milestone also aligns with wider efforts to strengthen Palestine’s participation in international trade.
In October 2024, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) partnered with Palestine Emerging, a private sector-led initiative, to support the Palestinian economy through trade facilitation and improved market access. Through this partnership, ICC supports the Palestine-OIC Single Market Initiative, which aims to improve access for Palestinian products across the 57 member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
MICCI’s facilitation of stakeholder engagement in Malaysia contributes to the broader objective of connecting Palestinian businesses with relevant markets and partners. MICCI said it will continue to support constructive engagement across the international business community, connecting relevant stakeholders and facilitating opportunities that can strengthen trade relationships and expand market access.
