Muis Halal Hub: Its Role and Contribution to the Islamic Community in Sabah

The Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) Halal Hub serves as a one-stop centre that supports halal traders and entrepreneurs, particularly in relation to halal certification and industry development. This study examines the roles and perceived contributions of the MUIS Halal Hub to the development of the Muslim community in Sabah. It adopts an institution-focused qualitative case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with two key informants who hold operational roles in the MUIS Halal Hub and through an analysis of relevant institutional and scholarly documents. The data were analysed thematically. From the institutional perspective represented in the interviews, the findings identify four interrelated roles: managing certification documentation and records, supporting halal industry development, conducting halal audits, and coordinating monitoring and enforcement activities. These functions may support local entrepreneurs by improving their understanding of halal requirements, strengthening compliance, and facilitating access to wider markets. The findings also highlight operational constraints, including limited human resources, Sabah's extensive geographical coverage, continuing non-compliance among some certificate holders, and the MUIS Halal Hub's dependence on other agencies for enforcement. The study concludes that the MUIS Halal Hub has the potential to contribute to entrepreneurship, employment, and consumer confidence; however, evidence from entrepreneurs, consumers, policymakers, and quantitative socioeconomic indicators is required before broader impacts can be established.

MUIS Halal Hub, halal governance, halal certification

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