Islamic revivalism and halal institutionalization: Tracking the influence of modern science and technology

Halal issues are increasingly important to be discussed and implemented in Malaysia, particularly in terms of economic, social, legal and political issues. Halal is highlighted in Malaysia, among others, through the institutionalization of several institutions such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), the Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC), as well as the government's strong support led to its rapid expansion. This halal phenomenon is also contributed by the changing process of the socio-political landscape of Malaysia, and is associated with the development of the Islamic revivalism since the 1970s. In addition, this development is also assisted by the increasingly strong relationship between science, technology and Islam. The objectives of this study are to study the relationship between Islamic revivalism and halal institutionalization, and to analyze the influence of science and technology as the catalyst in the development of halal institutionalization. Recent developments in the halal industry are seen as a stronger symbol of continuity of Islamic revivalism since 1970s, the impact of Islamization activities occurring in Malaysia, as well as the elements of modem science and technology which used in resolving halal issues. This study was conducted using library research, and interviews with several individuals involved in halal institutions in Malaysia. Through this study, it can be concluded that despite the rapid development of halal in terms of economic and legal aspects, this phenomenon can be seen as a reflection of the continuity of Islamic revivalism which is also assisted by a strong relationship between science, technology and Islam