The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) executive delegates in partnership with the JNJ EA Management and Consultancy Services Corporation capitalized on a valuable opportunity to spotlight the economic potential of BARMM during a courtesy visit, and Halal Hub and Investment Forum held from May 12 to 18, 2024, in Malaysia.

 

Headed by the Bangsamoro Economic Zone Authority (BEZA) Executive Director, Atty. Sukarno A. Abas among the members of the Bangsamoro delegations are the five (5) Mayors of Maguindanao del Norte BARMM of the Iranon Corridor: Mayor Cahar P. Ibay of Parang, Mayor Zulfikar Panda of Sultan Mastura, Mayor Zohria S. Bansil -Guro of Matanog, Mayor Pahmia A. Manalao of Buldon, and Mayor Abdul Rauf D. Tomawis of Barira; Ministry of Trade Investment and Tourism (MTIT) Bureau of Tourism Director Marites Mangindra; Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) Planning Chief Amador O. Tandalong; Maguindanao del Norte (MDN) Provincial Office representative Engr. Fatima U. Bansuan, League of Bangsamoro Organization (LBO) Vice President Yusoph S. Lumambas, and other BARMM officials.

 

The executive visit commenced with a courtesy call to Johor Bahru Mayor Datuk Haji Mohd Noorazam Bin Datuk Haji Osman, and the City Council who extended a warm welcome to the BARMM delegates as they prepare to participate in a series of investment forums and engagements in Johor Bahru. This visit is a significant milestone in strengthening the bond between Bangsa Johor and BARMM, offering a deeper understanding of the numerous opportunities and potential for collaboration in various sectors. The mayor expresses deep gratitude for the visit and eagerly anticipates the fruitful discussions and partnerships that will bring mutual benefits to both regions.

 

Moreover, during their visit to Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the BARMM delegation had the esteemed privilege of a courtesy visit and exploratory meeting with officials from Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM), the Department of Islamic Development. Led by the highly-respected Deputy Director General of Policy, YBhj. Dató Dr. Sirahuddin bin Suhaimee, the BARMM delegation received a warm and gracious welcome from the JAKIM representatives. This significant meeting presented an excellent opportunity for both parties to exchange valuable insights and delve into potential areas of collaboration, particularly in matters related to Islamic development. One key focus of the discussion was the potential for collaboration towards the development of a halal industrial hub in the region, aligning with the Authority’s goals. This initiative opens doors for further cooperation and advancement in the pursuit of shared objectives.

 

On the third day of visit, a noteworthy Investment Forum was jointly organized by the Malaysian Chinese Assembly Hall (MCAH) and the BARMM delegation. This forum brought together esteemed participants to engage in discussions that revolved around vital topics, including the development of the Bangsamoro Halal Industrial Park and the identification of potential investment opportunities within the ecozone. The event proved to be a pivotal platform for fostering collaborations and exploring avenues for sustainable economic growth in the region. With a focus on promoting mutual understanding and cooperation, this forum showcased the commitment of both MCAH and the BARMM delegation in driving investment initiatives and propelling economic progress.

 

Wrapping up their visit, the BEZA key personnel, under the leadership of Atty. Abas graciously accepted an invitation for an exploratory meeting with the officials of Kemaman Port in Terenggano, Malaysia. The delegation consisted of esteemed individuals, including YB Senator Haji Hussin Bin Ismail-Ahli Dewan Negara, the President of Yayasan Amal Malaysia (Amal Foundation of Malaysia), General Manager Ashari Bin Mohammad of Konsortium Pelabuhan Kemaman, and Group Executive Officer TS Haji Muhtar Bin Suhaili of Eastern Pacific Industrial Corporation Berhad (EPIC). 

 

During the meeting, YB Senator Haji Hussin Bin Ismail – Ahli Dewan Negara expressed a strong commitment to venture into rice processing and export within the BARMM region. This endeavor is anticipated to be among the future establishments in Halal Park, promising to significantly enrich the economic landscape of the area. The collaborative efforts between BEZA and the officials of Kemaman Port hold great potential for fostering economic growth and advancing the vision of the BARMM region.

 

This strategic initiative aimed to promote the BARMM’s burgeoning Halal industry and attract investment opportunities from international stakeholders, particularly in Malaysia, a key player in showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage and economic prospects but also fostered partnerships and collaborations that could drive sustainable growth and development in the Halal sector. The engagement underscored the BARMM’s commitment to fostering economic cooperation, promoting trade relations, and positioning itself as a hub for Halal products and services in the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region.