Dr. Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani
As the world’s population continues to grow, the need for sustainable and secure sources of food is becoming increasingly important.
Many experts believe that Islamic philosophy can provide valuable insights into how we can achieve this goal, while also promoting ethical and responsible business practices.
It is essential to note that the Malaysian government has acknowledged the utmost importance of food security and has taken assertive steps to ensure a reliable and sustainable food supply in the country. Through the adoption of Madani principles such as justice, compassion, and fairness, the government is determined to establish a food system that benefits all, including farmers and consumers alike.
This approach will undoubtedly position Malaysia as a major player in the global market, giving the country a competitive edge over others.
One of the key initiatives in this area is the “Food Security and Sovereignty” program, which aims to promote sustainable agriculture and food production, while also ensuring that all Malaysians have access to nutritious and affordable food.
The program is based on the principles of Islamic philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of social justice and economic fairness.
By promoting sustainable food production and distribution, the government is working to create a food system that benefits everyone, including small farmers and rural communities. This, in turn, can help reduce poverty and inequality, while also promoting economic growth and development.
In addition to promoting sustainable agriculture and food production, the government is also working to promote education and awareness among consumers.
This includes initiatives such as the “Malaysia Green, Clean and Healthy” campaign, which encourages Malaysians to adopt healthy and sustainable lifestyles.
By promoting awareness and education, the government is helping to create a more informed and engaged public that is better able to make ethical and sustainable choices when it comes to food.
One of the key advantages of this approach is that it can help Malaysia become a major player in the global food market.
By focusing on sustainability and ethical business practices, Malaysia can differentiate itself from other countries and become a leader in this important industry.
This, in turn, can give Malaysia greater influence and bargaining power on the global stage, making it a key player in determining the geopolitics of the world.
For example, Malaysia is currently the world’s largest exporter of palm oil, a key ingredient in many food and consumer products.
By promoting sustainable palm oil production and distribution, Malaysia can help shape the global market for this important commodity, while also promoting environmental sustainability and social justice.
In addition to palm oil, Malaysia has a rich and diverse agricultural sector that includes products such as rice, rubber, and cocoa.
By promoting sustainable practices in these industries, Malaysia can help create a more sustainable and equitable food system that benefits everyone.
This, in turn, can help reduce poverty and inequality, while also promoting economic growth and development.
Another key advantage of this approach is that it can help Malaysia become a leader in the halal food market, which is estimated to be worth over $2 trillion globally.
Halal food is food that is prepared and consumed by Islamic dietary laws, which emphasize the importance of ethical and humane treatment of animals, as well as environmental sustainability and social justice.
By promoting sustainable and ethical practices in the halal food industry, Malaysia can help shape the global market for this important commodity, while also promoting Islamic values and principles.
In conclusion, Madani Economy philosophy can provide valuable insights into how we can achieve sustainability in business, particularly in the area of food security.
By leveraging these principles, Malaysia can become a leader in the global food market and help shape the geopolitics of the world positively and sustainably.
Through sustainable food production and distribution, education and awareness, and ethical business practices, Malaysia can create a more equitable and sustainable food system that benefits everyone, from small farmers to consumers.
In doing so, Malaysia can become a model for other countries to follow, and help create a more sustainable and just world for future generations.
About the author: Dr. Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani is a former senior government officer who has transitioned into a political and nationhood analyst. This is an opinion column. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this publication.
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