Prince of Songkla University, through its Halal Institute, officially launched the Halal International Trade and Conference Exhibition 2025 (World HAPEX 2025). The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Aroon Boonchom, the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, who delivered blessings and presided over the opening ceremony. It also featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Dr. Saleh bin Ali Al-Okla, Rector of the Islamic University of Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and remarks by Mr. Sumate Chulajata, Ambassador of Thailand to Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Distinguished participants included Asst. Prof. Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, President of Prince of Songkla University, Asst. Prof. Dr. Asman Taeali, Director of the Halal Institute, alongside executives from government and private sectors, members of the press, and numerous attendees. The opening took place at the Convention Hall, 60thAnniversary of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the Throne International Convention Center, Hat Yai, Songkhla Province.
Mr. Aroon Boonchom, the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, remarked that World HAPEX 2025 creates opportunities for halal entrepreneurs from the southern border provinces to market their products and services, while also promoting the unique identity of Muslim businesses from the region to the wider public and investors. Amidst today’s rapidly changing world, demand for halal products continues to grow—not only within Muslim countries but also among global consumers who value cleanliness and ethical production. The halal industry is no longer limited to religious dimensions; it is interconnected with food security, safety, health, and sustainability, with science and innovation serving as key drivers to reinforce halal standards and consumer confidence worldwide.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Niwat Keawpradub, President of Prince of Songkla University, emphasized that the university recognizes the importance of advancing halal knowledge in all dimensions, including academics, research, technology, standards, and community engagement. As a leading higher education institution in southern Thailand, a region with a significant Muslim population and a multicultural society, the university acknowledges its role in this mission. By supporting World HAPEX 2025, the university provides a platform for knowledge exchange among experts, researchers, and entrepreneurs from around the globe, in line with Thailand’s ambition to become ASEAN’s halal hub. For Prince of Songkla University, the focus on halal is both an academic mission and a social responsibility aimed at building a fair, resilient, and sustainable socio-economic system that aligns with Islamic principles.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Asman Taeali, Director of the Halal Institute, Prince of Songkla University, stated that the institute has consistently prioritized the promotion of halal marketing, research, innovation, and human resource development. World HAPEX 2025, now in its 14th edition, reflects these commitments. The event features a wide range of activities, including academic seminars on halal both locally and internationally; a halal trade fair and exhibition with more than 200 entrepreneurs; exhibitions from government and private agencies; and business matching sessions. Additional highlights include cultural performances showcasing the Muslim heritage of southern Thailand, a speech contest, “Muslimah Day” activities, the World HAPEX Tea Tarik Champion 2025 competition, and Islamic finance activities organized by As-siddeek Islamic Cooperative Limited.
