The government of South Sumatra Province (Pemprov Sumsel) has allocated 1,000 free halal certifications for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) in the province. Fatoni, speaking after attending the Sharia Festival Sriwijaya 2024 in Palembang Indah Mall, emphasized the importance of obtaining halal certification for food and beverage products to ensure the protection of Muslim consumers. With Indonesia being the second most populous Muslim country globally, at 86.7%, and South Sumatra Province itself having 94.24% Muslim population according to 2022 data, supporting the development of Sharia economics becomes imperative. Fatoni highlighted the significance of Sharia economics in various sectors such as finance, fashion, culinary, and tourism, and emphasized the role of UMKM and Islamic boarding schools in driving Sharia-based grassroots economy to enhance the competitiveness of the halal value chain. Acknowledging the efforts of Bank Indonesia and the Sharia Economic and Financial Committee, Fatoni praised their consistent support in developing Sharia economics and finance, exemplified by events like the Sharia Festival Sriwijaya, a precursor to the Sumatera 2024 Sharia Economic Festival.
To foster a high-competitive halal ecosystem, collaboration among stakeholders and government support through regulation and incentives is crucial. Fatoni expressed hope that the coordination and collaboration between the South Sumatra Provincial Government, Bank Indonesia, Islamic banking institutions, academia, practitioners, and Sharia economic enthusiasts will continue to drive Sharia economics and finance in the region. During the same occasion, Ricky P. Gozali, the Head of Bank Indonesia South Sumatra Representative Office, emphasized the importance of consistency in promoting Sharia economic products and activities in the region. The upcoming Sharia Festival Sriwijaya, themed 'Strengthening Sharia Economics and Finance through the Development of Halal Economy and Industry', will feature various engaging activities including competitions, seminars, halal product certification, consultations, expos, and business matching sessions. Notable attendees included Zulkarnain, the Chairman of the Palembang Religious High Court, Affandi Udjie, Chairman of Sumsel Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Muhammad Latif, Deputy Head of Bank Indonesia Representative Office.
