Latest news with #Halal-certified
Focus Malaysia
18 hours ago
- Business
- Focus Malaysia
Southeast Asia pharma market set to outgrow global average
SOUTHASIA Asia (SEA) presents a substantial future prospect for the pharmaceutical market. Its projected growth rate significantly outpaces the global average and other major established markets. As of calendar year 2024 (CY24), global total market size for pharmaceuticals is estimated at USD1.5 tri. In comparison, SEA's total market size is estimated at USD27 bil. The significant growth for SEA indicates that ASEAN is a prime growth engine for the global pharmaceutical industry. This makes it an attractive destination for investment and market expansion. The Philippines and Malaysia show steady growth in a biosimilar export potential, reaching USD 111 mil and USD 70 mil respectively by 2027. Malaysia's growth, though robust, is relatively smaller in absolute terms compared to Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. However, companies like Duopharma and Pharmaniaga are actively developing Halal-certified biosimilars. Overall, biosimilars is an untapped potential due to increasing healthcare demands and cost pressure. 'We believe that investing in local manufacturing of biosimilars can open avenues for SEA countries to export,' said MBSB Research. Countries that prioritise and invest in local biosimilar production are likely to become stronger exporters in this field. This aligns with the broader trends of high pharmaceutical market growth in SEA driven by demographics, NCDs, and the increasing sophistication of healthcare systems, all of which necessitate tailored and creative market strategies. Malaysia's pharmaceutical sector boasts a strong and strategically recognized local manufacturing base that significantly contributes to medicine security, especially for generics and essential medicines. While Malaysia demonstrates capabilities in exporting to highly regulated markets like the USA, it remains heavily reliant on imports for patented drugs, biologics, vaccines, and key APIs. The main challenge for Malaysia lies in bridging this gap by further boosting local R&D, attracting more sophisticated manufacturing capabilities, and strengthening its position in the global pharmaceutical value chain beyond just generics. 79% of total volume of generic medicines and 47% of items listed in National Essential Medicines List (NEML) are locally produced. However, most drugs, notably patented medicaments, immunoglobulins, human vaccines and insulins, are still dependent on imports. Malaysia consistently shows widening trade deficit underscores Malaysia's high reliance on imported pharmaceuticals. While local production is strong in generics, the country still depends heavily on foreign sources for innovative, patented, and specialised medicines. This reinforces the government's strategic focus on local manufacturing and technology transfer to enhance medicine security and reduce import dependency in the long run. The overall trend in the regional and local pharmaceutical market suggests that both domestic and foreign investors will see growing opportunities in Malaysia. The 51% FDI / 49% DDI ratio suggests a healthy balance between local commitment, and global capital and expertise. FDI indicates that Malaysia is highly attractive to foreign pharmaceutical companies, bringing in capital, technology, and global best practices, while DDI signifies robust local entrepreneurship and investment from Malaysian companies, demonstrating confidence in the domestic market and capabilities. We opine that the untapped drug manufacturing ecosystem will continue to follow the megatrend of new innovative drugs – including biologics, biosimilars and cell & gene therapy drugs – and open more opportunities for Malaysia to be a major healthcare hub in the region. While direct pharmaceutical exports from Malaysia to the US might face immediate headwinds from tariffs, the broader impact on Malaysia's healthcare subsector could come from indirect effects on global pharmaceutical supply chains and procurement costs. This would affect the affordability and availability of medicines within Malaysia for all citizens and healthcare providers. The Malaysian government and industry players are already responding by prioritizing supply chain diversification and exploring domestic production enhancements to mitigate these risks. Meanwhile, we believe a multi-pronged approach involving government action, industry adaptation, and consumer awareness will be crucial. Overall, we maintain positive on the healthcare sector. The pharmaceutical market is fundamentally driven by robust demographic trends, which naturally increases the demand for healthcare services and medicines. —July 23, 2025 Main image: Daily Sabah
Buzz Feed
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
I Went To South Korea To Find The Best Food – Here's Where You Can Find Amazing Halal And Vegan-Friendly Options
Hey foodies! I'm Amer, and if there's one thing I love more than a good travel adventure, it's a good travel adventure filled with incredible food. South Korea has been on my bucket list for ages, not just for its incredible culture and K-pop vibes, but for its legendary cuisine. But here's the thing: as someone who's always on the lookout for diverse dietary options – specifically Halal and vegan-friendly spots – I knew this trip would be a delicious guess what? South Korea delivered! It was a culinary wonderland, and I'm here to share my absolute favourite finds, proving that you can seriously feast in Seoul and beyond, no matter your dietary needs. Come with me as I dive headfirst into South Korea's incredible food scene, from its buzzing street markets to its best-kept secrets. I'm here to show you that there's a delicious bite for every palate, especially Halal and plant-based eats! 비건키친 (Vegan Kitchen) Nestled near Myeongdong, Seoul, at Exit 3 (21 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Jung District, Seoul ), Vegan Kitchen is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking delicious plant-based Korean food. This spot completely redefines what vegan eating in Korea can be, offering a delightful array of traditional Korean dishes, all made vegan-style. Think everything from classic Bibimbap and Stir-fried Bulgogi with Rice to more modern options like poke bowls, tortillas, and even plant-based fried chicken!First off, the location is super convenient, just a stone's throw from Myeongdong, making it easy to find. The menu variety is genuinely impressive, with so many choices you'll want to come back again and again to try them all. You place your order conveniently on a tablet at your table, which makes the whole process super smooth. But the absolute BEST surprise? Your food isn't delivered by a human! Instead, a super cute, cat-eared robot glides right up to your table with your order! It's a total futuristic delight and definitely adds to the fun of the experience. The Price Tag (and why it's a steal!): My entire meal, including the stew, dumplings, and a soft drink, came to a total of ₩18,000. That's approximately £9.72! For a full, delicious, and incredibly satisfying meal in central Seoul, this is fantastic value. You get generous portions of freshly made food, plus those essential free side dishes, making it a truly affordable Friendly? This entire restaurant is dedicated to vegan cuisine, meaning everything on the menu is plant-based and suitable for vegans. While not explicitly Halal-certified, the absence of meat and animal by-products means many dishes would align with a Halal diet, making it a fantastic option for both!Location/Tips: Search for "비건키친" or "Vegan Kitchen" near Myeongdong, Seoul. It's super close to Exit 3 of Myeongdong Station, and the Naver navigation map link is also handy. Don't forget to snap a pic with the robot when it delivers your food! Little Gangster / 리틀갱스터양식 Despite its captivating name, "Little Gangster" is far from intimidating; it's an absolute culinary gem! Located near Hyochang Park Station in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, this premium eatery offers a refined dining experience with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. While the space might be on the cosier side, it exudes a classy and wonderfully comfortable vibe, making it perfect for a relaxed meal. The owner was super friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience even better, and trust me – the food here is genuinely outstanding! What truly sets Little Gangster apart is that they're constantly evolving their approach to ingredients. Their menu rotates seasonally, meaning every visit brings new and exciting plant-based creations to the table. This commitment to fresh, in-season produce ensures a dynamic and innovative dining experience, featuring items like kimchi stew with tofu katsu and lentil-kamut rice start, I tried April's Seongju Korean Melon Gazpacho (₩11,000) as an appetiser. This was an unexpected delight – incredibly refreshing, subtly sweet from the melon, and a perfect palate my main, I opted for their famous Signature Nature-Inspired Pasta (₩21,000). This dish is a true masterpiece; it felt like a hug in a bowl, reimagined with a 'Temple Cuisine' influence. The rich sauce, simmered with sweet daikon, carrots, and bell peppers, had incredible depth, which was then perfectly brightened with fresh mashed tomatoes for a lighter taste. It came served with beautifully roasted vegetables and a selection of seasonal Korean greens. The best part? You can choose your base, so I went with the delicious Handmade Gnocchi, which were perfectly tender. Every dish felt thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. The Price Tag (and why it's worth every penny!): My meal at Little Gangster came to a total of ₩32,000, which is approximately £17.30. While it's certainly more of a premium price point than your average Korean meal, for the quality of ingredients, the inventive plant-based cooking, and the beautiful dining experience, it feels incredibly justified. This is definitely a spot for a special Friendly? Little Gangster is a fantastic vegan-friendly restaurant with a clear focus on plant-based dishes. As with many dedicated vegan spots, the lack of meat and common animal products makes it suitable for those seeking Halal options, though it's always good to confirm specific ingredients if you have strict You'll find Little Gangster near Hyochang Park Station in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. It's a fantastic spot for a more upscale, yet cosy, dining experience. Naver navigation Map link. 집밥김선생 (Jipbab Kimseonsaeng) – Your Authentic Halal Korean Feast! If you're searching for authentic Korean cuisine with the absolute peace of mind that comes from knowing it's Halal, then 집밥김선선생 (Jipbab Kimseonsaeng) is your new favourite spot! This restaurant is a game-changer, offering a huge variety of traditional Korean dishes, all prepared with Halal meat. The moment you step in, you're greeted with incredibly friendly hospitality, making you feel right at home. Their menu are absolutely packed with options, ensuring there's something for everyone, even if a few popular items were temporarily sold out when I visited (which just shows how in-demand they are!). It's genuinely thrilling to see such a diverse range of Korean classics made accessible to a Halal diet. We went all out with our order to try as much as possible, and every dish was a winner! First up was the Bulgogi 한상 (Hansang) (₩14,000 / approx. £7.56). This set came with beautifully seasoned, thinly sliced Halal meat, served with fluffy rice, delicate Plain Boiled Quail Eggs, a refreshing salad with purple cabbage and greens, tasty Eomuk Bokkeum (fish cake stir-fry, often made with veggie broth here to keep it Halal-friendly!), and a comforting egg soup. It was a complete and utterly satisfying meal in one!We also devoured the classic Cheese Tteokbokki (₩12,000 / approx. £6.48), which had that perfect spicy, sweet, cheesy kick. The Fried Chicken (₩13,000 / approx. £7.02) was wonderfully crispy on the outside and juicy within – a Halal chicken triumph! And finally, the Japchae Hansang (₩14,000 / approx. £7.56) (glass noodle stir-fry) was perfectly seasoned and packed with vibrant Price Tag (and why it's a great deal!): For all these incredible dishes – the Bulgogi Hansang, Cheese Tteokbokki, Fried Chicken, and Japchae Hansang – our total came to ₩53,000. That's approximately £28.62! For a feast of this size and quality, especially for authentic Halal Korean food, this is absolutely brilliant value. The portions are generous, and the sheer variety you get for the price is fantastic, especially when dining with a Friendly? This restaurant is explicitly Halal-certified, making it a top choice for Muslim travellers and locals. While their main focus is on Halal meat, they offer a range of traditional Korean dishes, and it's always worth asking if certain items can be prepared vegan-friendly for those looking for plant-based options, though their primary strength is Halal You'll find 집밥김선생 (Jipbab Kimseonsaeng) easily near Noksapyeong Station, Exit 3. Their last order is at 9 PM, so plan accordingly. Naver navigation map link Have you visited South Korea? Let us know your favourite spots to eat in the comments below!
Business Recorder
30-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Halal seafood industry: Pakistan, Vietnam agree to expand cooperation
KARACHI: Pakistan and Vietnam have agreed to expand cooperation in the Halal seafood industry, signalling a new chapter in bilateral trade relations between the two countries. To this end, a key meeting was held between the Ambassador of Vietnam to Pakistan, Pham Anh Tuan, representatives of the Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association, and Pangasius fish importers with Director General of Marine Fisheries Department (MFD) Dr Mansoor Ali Wassan. Dr Wassan informed the participants that Pakistan's seafood exports to Vietnam reached US $9 million in 2024, a 20 percent increase over the previous year. He also highlighted Pakistan's expanding capabilities in aquaculture and Halal-certified fish processing. Pakistan marks first shipment of farm-raised shrimp Dr Wassan noted that with steady efforts in policy coordination, trade facilitation, and infrastructure development, especially in cold chain systems and Halal certification, Pakistan has the potential to match or even exceed Vietnam's seafood exports to Pakistan. He remarked, 'Setting an annual export target of $25–30 million within next five years is not only realistic but also strategically advantageous for diversifying Pakistan's marine export portfolio.' Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan emphasised the importance of strengthening coordination between Vietnamese and Pakistani stakeholders through regulatory harmonisation and technical cooperation. He reaffirmed Vietnam's adherence to Halal standards for seafood exports to Pakistan and welcomed deeper institutional collaboration. Dr Wassan expressed Pakistan's readiness to enhance bilateral engagement to further develop its fisheries and aquaculture industries, pointing to Vietnam's success in aquaculture as a valuable model for learning and investment. Executive Committee Member of the Pakistan Fisheries Exporters Association, Asim Abrar noted that while Pakistan has exported raw seafood for over four decades, the country is now making strides in value-added segments such as shrimp farming drawing inspiration from Vietnam's successful development in this area. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Barnama
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
Korea is Back: Culture to Deepen Bilateral Ties with Malaysia
By Nur Elysa Amirah Suhaimi & Nur Atiq Maisarah Suhaimi KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 (Bernama) -- South Korea views Malaysia as a key partner in expanding its soft power presence, with culture identified as a strategic pillar to deepen bilateral ties, said South Korea's Ambassador to Malaysia, Yeo Seung Bae. The embassy has just concluded a 12-day K-Culture Festival, running from June 11 to June 22, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) and other Korean government agencies. bootstrap slideshow Yeo said that the event exceeded expectations, attracting over 35,000 people of all ages and backgrounds, clearly reflecting South Korea's success in promoting its national appeal to Malaysians. 'This festival featured various events spanning food, tourism, beauty and music, held continuously over 12 days,' he said, noting it was also organised to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Malaysia. 'This event also coincided with the formation of our new government earlier this month, so through this festival, the embassy wishes to convey the message that Korea is back,' he told Bernama in an exclusive interview at the Embassy recently. Among the festival highlights, Yeo said, was a cooking show featuring Michelin-starred Korean chefs who introduced premium and Halal-certified Korean beef to the Malaysian public. Other key events included a Tourism Roadshow, which showcased popular South Korean travel destinations, especially those favoured by Malaysians, and a K-Beauty segment led by experienced Korean makeup artists, where participants could try and learn about Korean cosmetics. 'The most popular event was the Korea-ASEAN Music Festival, which brought together artists from Korea and all 10 ASEAN member countries. Around 4,000 people, mostly young Malaysians, attended, and it was truly a beautiful sight,' he added.
Mid East Info
18-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Marugame Udon; ' World's Largest Udon Restaurant Chain Set to Make Its Grand Debut in the UAE - Middle East Business News and Information
Culinary enthusiasts across the UAE are about to discover a fresh new taste sensation as Marugame Udon, the world's largest udon restaurant chain with over 1,100 outlets globally, officially lands in the region. Famous for its skillfully handmade udon noodles and engaging dining experience, Marugame Udon invites UAE residents to immerse themselves in the authentic flavors and vibrant culture of Japan. The launch of Marugame Udon in the UAE is made possible through a strategic partnership between Opal Food Concepts and Toridoll Holdings, the global parent company behind Marugame Udon, along with the support of the West Zone Group. This collaboration brings together Opal's commitment to culinary innovation with Toridoll's global expertise and West Zone's deep-rooted presence in UAE retail and hospitality. 'Marugame Udon is more than just a restaurant — it's an experience that brings people closer to Japanese culture through honest, handcrafted food,' said Razeen Parambil, Founder and Director of Opal Food Concepts. 'We're proud to introduce this global favourite to the UAE and are confident it will quickly become a beloved destination for quality, affordable dining.' As an initial target, the company plans to open 10 locations in the UAE over the next five years, strategically expanding access to high-quality Japanese dining experiences for residents and visitors alike. The inaugural Marugame Udon restaurant is set to open soon, warmly welcoming diners to an exceptional and authentic Japanese culinary journey. As Marugame Udon opens its doors in Dubai, it proudly presents a thoughtfully curated menu that reflects the rich diversity and culinary preferences of the UAE. At the heart of this offering is a commitment to authenticity and inclusivity — every dish is Halal-certified, ensuring an inviting and accessible Japanese dining experience for all. In celebration of the Dubai launch, Marugame Udon introduces exclusive regional specialties crafted to appeal to local tastes. Highlights include a hearty Vegetarian Japanese Curry, perfect for plant-based diners, and the bold Spicy Maze Udon, made for those who crave intense flavors. Spice lovers will also enjoy the complimentary green chili at the condiment station, allowing each guest to tailor their bowl with an extra kick. Recognizing the region's strong preference for chicken, the brand also debuts the indulgent Chicken Katsu Curry Udon, which pairs a crispy chicken cutlet with rich Japanese curry, and the comforting Teriyaki Chicken Udon, available in both regular and kid-friendly portions. With these innovative additions, Marugame Udon not only delivers on its promise of authentic Japanese comfort food but also ensures that every guest — from seasoned udon fans to first-time visitors — feels right at home. Central to Marugame Udon's unique appeal is the captivating 'Live Noodle Theater,' an interactive culinary performance where guests can watch chefs expertly prepare fresh, flavorful udon noodles right before their eyes. Each noodle is crafted daily by hand, ensuring unmatched freshness and an authentic taste that reflects the heart of Japanese cuisine. Marugame Udon offers more than just dining — it offers a cultural experience. Delivering quick, affordable meals without compromising on quality, every visit becomes a flavorful and immersive moment, ideal for casual meals, family gatherings, or social outings.
