The growing trend of non-Muslim-owned businesses obtaining Halal certification in Malaysia has ignited a lively online discussion about consumer behavior and market dynamics. Social media users have been debating whether catering to Muslim customers through Halal certification translates to greater profitability, with opinions divided on whether spending power or demographic size plays a bigger role in business success.
One Facebook user, Kenny Lau, argued that businesses without Halal certification struggle to attract Malay customers, who represent a significant consumer base. His view was echoed by Fadzli Fuzi, who emphasized that Muslim consumers prioritize Halal-certified products. Meanwhile, digital marketer Izzat Azizi shifted the conversation to X (formerly Twitter), highlighting how Chinese-owned businesses increasingly invest in Halal certification to tap into this lucrative market.
Not everyone agreed with the premise that Halal certification guarantees success. User Amir countered that while Malays make up a large portion of the population, Chinese consumers still lead in per capita spending and dining frequency. This perspective was supported by SVXFZ, who shared demographic data showing Bumiputeras as Malaysia’s majority ethnic group. Others, like Adzizi, suggested that trust can be built over time without certification, citing examples like IKEA and Lavender Bakery.
Recent data from the Halal Development Corporation (HDC) reveals that 70% of Halal-certified businesses in Malaysia are owned by non-Bumiputeras, up from 56.7% last year. This surge reflects a strategic shift as entrepreneurs recognize the global Halal market’s potential, projected to reach $2.8 trillion. The viral social media post, amassing thousands of interactions, underscores how deeply Halal certification is intertwined with Malaysia’s economic and cultural landscape.