The mandate to set up HDC was mentioned by Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, on 31 March 2006 at the tabling of the motion for the Ninth Malaysian Plan, 2006 – 2010 (Plan). During the tabling, the Prime Minister announced that “To leverage on Malaysia’s advantages in the Halal sector, particularly in terms of certification and logo recognition, the Plan will drive the sector’s growth in making Malaysia an international hub for Halal products and services. The Halal Industry Development Corporation will be established to develop this industry in a holistic and orderly manner.”

HDC was established on 18 September 2006 to co-ordinate the overall development of the industry with its main focus being the development of Halal standards, audit and certification, capacity building for Halal products and services as well as to promote and facilitate growth and participation of Malaysian companies in the global Halal market.

HDC spearheads Malaysia’s vision to develop Halal as a powerful market force, bringing the benefits of Halal products and services to both Muslims and non-Muslims throughout the world. Malaysia has the potential to become the leading World Halal Hub and gather the global industry under a unified umbrella that can take the Halal business to higher levels.