Negeri Sembilan To Develop Malaysia’s First AI-powered Halal Hub

SEREMBAN, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Negeri Sembilan is set to become the first state in Malaysia to establish a halal hub powered by artificial intelligence (AI), said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

He said a RM400 million Regional Halal Distribution Centre (RHDC) will be developed on a 5.423-hectare site in Bandar Enstek, and construction is scheduled to begin next month. 

Aminuddin, who is also the State Investment, Infrastructure, Utilities and Public Facilities Action Committee chairman, said that the centre will be built and equipped with automation, AI, and smart management systems to maximise operational efficiency and effectively control costs.

“This is the first of its kind in the country. While there are many logistics facilities, one that integrates modern design, AI, and technology specifically for halal products to be stored and exported has never been done before.

“This is the uniqueness of RHDC and what sets it apart from existing facilities in Malaysia. The adoption of advanced technologies will make RHDC a centre that meets customer demand more effectively,” he said.

Aminuddin said this at a press conference after witnessing the signing of an agreement between the Negeri Sembilan State Development Corporation (PKNNS) and cold chain logistics and software development company Gobuilders Netsoft Sdn Bhd here today.

PKNNS was represented by its chief executive officer (CEO), Rusmimah Mat Derus, while Gobuilders was represented by its CEO, Ivan Chin Wen Hau.

The Port Dickson member of parliament noted that the development of RHDC will also act as a catalyst for new investments in Negeri Sembilan, especially for halal industry players who export extensively to the Middle East.

Aminuddin added that RHDC, which will be located within the Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0 area, will further strengthen efforts to promote the halal industry, while attracting global investors seeking halal certification. 

“With the facilities and services offered, Negeri Sembilan will become a magnet for the halal industry not only from the Asian region but potentially from around the world.

“In addition to providing modern infrastructure, this project will also create highly skilled job opportunities, particularly for local residents,” he said, adding that demand for halal products is already strong in Europe, Russia, Canada, and Japan, with the global halal market valued in the trillions.

In a separate development, Aminuddin advised mussel or shellfish farmers in Port Dickson waters not to harvest or collect their produce at this time.

He said this was due to high biotoxin levels detected in the seafood, which would pose health risks if consumed.

“We will monitor this issue closely and hope that we will see improvements within a month, given the rainy season in the area,” said Aminuddin. 

-- BERNAMA