Ex-ASEAN chief: Halal food industry would create huge economic opportunities

BANGKOK, July 30 (TNA) -- The World Halal Fest had officially kicked off on Friday, during which the former ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan has voiced that the halal food industry would help to create enormous economic opportunities. The official opening ceremony of the World Halal Fest 2016 at Central World, in the heart of Thailand's capital, Bangkok, was presided over by Thailand's Chularatchamontri or Muslim spiritual leader, Aziz Pitakkhumpol, during which Dr Surin Pitsuwan also gave the opening speech. The event was attended by diplomats and honourable guests from over 10 Islamic countries. During his speech, Dr Surin pointed out the importance of the halal food industry, saying that it would help to produce huge economic benefits of Thailand, as more people around the world have started to consume more Halal products. He further stressed that Thailand must now ensure that the country's halal products are well accepted at the international level and by Islamic followers as well. The first World Halal 2016 is organised under the theme, The Colours of Muslim World through the collaboration between the Thai Muslim Trade Association and the Embassies of Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Moroccan, Jordan, Turkey as well as related partners on the 1st floor , Eden Zone, of Central World department store from 29-31 July, 2016. The three-day event is aimed at sharing the knowledge and understanding on the world of Muslim in terms of food, culture and the way of life from all corners of the world. Activities at the event include showcases of halal food, tourism and related services as well as panel discussions and seminars by experts. (END)