By Aimi Mohamad Farid
Photo by Noor Azreen Awang

SERDANG, 12 May - Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), through its Halal Products Research Institute (IPPH), organised the HI-LITE 2026: Halal@IPPH – Laboratory, Insight, Technology & Exhibition 2026 programme as part of efforts to strengthen awareness, research collaboration and innovation within the halal industry ecosystem.

The programme brought together postgraduate students, prospective students, academics, industry players and community members through various activities including laboratory exhibitions, industry forums, seminars and live demonstrations related to halal science and technology.

UPM Vice-Chancellor, Dato’ Prof. Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah FASc, said the programme aligns with the university’s efforts to strengthen food security, halal education and interdisciplinary research.

“When we talk about food security, it is closely linked to quality, safety and halal assurance. This is part of UPM’s role in ensuring that we continue to contribute solutions and improvements for society, nation and the global halal industry,” he said.

He added that collaboration between universities, industries, government agencies and communities is essential in developing a sustainable and competitive halal ecosystem.

“We need research that not only produces academic recognition, but also creates meaningful impact for society, industry and the country,” he said.

Meanwhile, Director of IPPH, Prof. Dr. Awis Qurni Sazili FASc, said the programme serves as a platform to connect researchers, industry stakeholders and the public through knowledge sharing and technological innovation.

“We believe that the development of halal innovation requires strong collaboration between academia, industry and community. Platforms such as HI-LITE 2026 are important in strengthening the halal ecosystem through education and engagement,”

The programme also served as a platform to showcase IPPH’s expertise, laboratory facilities and research capabilities in halal product analysis and verification.

Among the main highlights of the programme were the “Business 360° – Dari Prinsip Halal ke Puncak Pasaran” forum featuring industry representatives and entrepreneurs, as well as the “Flavour 360° – Jom Kenali Perasa Makanan” seminar and hands-on demonstration session.

Visitors were also given the opportunity to explore halal laboratory facilities, participate in quizzes and exhibitions, and observe demonstrations involving scientific instruments and halal testing methods.

In addition, free health screening services were offered in collaboration with Hospital Pakar An-Nur as part of efforts to promote community well-being alongside halal awareness.

Through HI-LITE 2026, UPM continues to reinforce its commitment to advancing halal research and innovation while strengthening strategic partnerships with industry and relevant stakeholders at both national and international levels.

Tarikh Input: 13/05/2026 | Kemaskini: 13/05/2026 | hairul_nizam