A new strategic alliance has been formed between OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad and Halal Development Corporation Berhad, announced during the Malaysia International Halal Showcase 2025. This partnership aims to enhance support for halal entrepreneurs and expand the halal economy’s reach. The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the chief executive officers of both organizations, signaling a joint commitment to advancing Malaysia’s halal industry.
The collaboration will focus on providing Shariah-compliant financial solutions alongside comprehensive business support services. OCBC Al-Amin’s CEO highlighted that the bank’s approach extends beyond traditional financing to include market connectivity and growth support for halal businesses. This initiative is designed to help local entrepreneurs strengthen their domestic presence while preparing for international market expansion, combining financial expertise with practical business development resources.
HDC’s leadership emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership in advancing Malaysia’s halal economy, which currently contributes approximately 8.1% to the nation’s GDP. With projections indicating the market could reach USD 113 billion by 2030, the collaboration will implement various capacity-building programs including workshops, financial literacy initiatives, and awareness campaigns. These efforts will be supported through HDC’s Halal Integrated Platform, offering training, consultancy, and market facilitation services to participating businesses.
This partnership aligns with Malaysia’s Halal Industry Master Plan 2030, particularly in strengthening industry infrastructure and developing competitive halal enterprises. The cooperation will enable knowledge exchange, cross-referrals, and expanded market access within the halal ecosystem. OCBC Al-Amin brings substantial experience in Islamic financing, having disbursed RM268 million through its Islamic Portfolio Guarantee-i scheme since 2017, demonstrating its established commitment to supporting Bumiputera and women-led businesses.
As one of Malaysia’s leading foreign Islamic banks since its establishment in 2008, OCBC Al-Amin operates through 38 branches nationwide, including seven dedicated Islamic banking branches. Through this strategic partnership with HDC, both organizations reinforce their dedication to driving sustainable growth in Malaysia’s halal sector, positioning halal business as a primary choice for entrepreneurs while enhancing the global competitiveness of Malaysian halal products and services.