Purpose This study aims to identify the negotiation parameters of needs for Halal talents in Malaysia and proffer solutions on the sustainability of halal talents in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach A focus group discussion was performed among seven Halal talents from the industries of various schemes. Using the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) analysis approach, a functional model, as well as causes and effect analysis, is generated by the participants. The model is translated into a contradiction matrix to obtain the necessary solutions in developing a sustainable framework for Halal Talents in Malaysia. Findings The cause-and-effect analysis reveals that poor career path, lack of training and poor salary structure are experienced by the participants. Research limitations/implications Having had vast categories of halal industries, this research focuses on nine schemes under halal certification JAKIM which excludes banking and tourism. Practical implications It is suggested that the implementation of mutual benefits should be in place to enhance positivism among Halal talents in the near future. Originality/value Unlike the social science approach, the use of TRIZ analysis provides a substantial framework of sustainability among halal talents in Malaysia.

‘Halal’ is currently being pursued in many consumer products, including those that containing nanomaterials or regular materials manipulated at nano-scale level. As the governor of Halal affairs in Malaysia, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is responsible to ensure regulatory approval for nano-based products must be consistent with the Halal parameter set out under Syariah law. Despite Halal certification in this area also remains low in Malaysia, there is a need to investigate the approach to regulating nanotechnology products in order to see if protection of consumers is guaranteed; and whether Halal and safety mechanisms for consumer products are vigilant enough. In realising these aims, this paper takes nano-based food products as a case study. Through analysis, this paper provides an original perspective of how can the existing Halal legal framework adequately covers nanotechnology products. It will involve, firstly, the discussions of the Trade Description Act 2011 or TDA 2011 (as well as the Trade Description (Definition of Halal) Order 2011 and the Trade Description (Certification and Marking of Halal) Order 2011) and legislations governing the two specific sectors. Secondly, it examines whether the existing Halal legal framework is capable of dealing with more complex and sophisticated technology-based products like foods that contain nanomaterials or using nanotechnology. In setting out the parameter of whether the existing regulation is adequate to protect consumers, it highlights legal and regulatory issues relevant to safety regulation of nano-enabled food and cosmetic products. The paper finds that the current Halal legal framework has covered all consumer goods and products, including nano-based products. Indeed, the products are also subject to specific Halal monitoring and enforcement similar to other Halal approved products. This is also in tandem with the concept of Halal Thoyyiban that permits any goods for consumption as long as they are safe and do not cause harm. However, within this it should not be forgotten that such products/technology remain the subject of considerable research as this technology is relatively nascent and the safety/ risk threshold has not been fully ascertained.

The halal built-in concept assures that the whole cosmetic manufacturing process complies with the halal requirements and all related aspects of safety, cleanliness, efficacy, and quality. However, the challenges faced by cosmetic manufacturers in halal cosmetics will undermine the effectiveness of the halal built-in concept. This study will examine the legal and regulatory challenges cosmetic producers experience in complying with halal requirements throughout cosmetic production. To achieve the objective, this study adopted a qualitative method in which data were collected through interviews with twelve halal-certified cosmetic manufacturers and two industry experts. This study found that halal cosmetic manufacturers encounter challenges in getting halal raw materials, dealing with unsupportive suppliers, maintaining halal during production, and preparing documentation for the halal application. This study will enlighten suppliers, competent authorities, and the government on the efforts taken by halal cosmetic manufacturers to maintain the halal certification of the products so that it helps reduce all obstacles.

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