The MOE Roundtable: Jom Kopi brought together Muslim-Owned Enterprise (MOE) certificate holders, business owners, industry practitioners, and regional stakeholders for a candid discussion on how the MOE ecosystem can create greater value for businesses.Â
Held at SMCCI, the session went beyond certification. It focused on a bigger question: how can the MOE network become a stronger platform for business growth, collaboration, market access, and long-term opportunity?Â
The session also welcomed H.E. Dr Yob Ashkary, Secretary of State in Cult and Religion from Cambodia, who shared insights into Cambodia’s Muslim community and its halal certification landscape, adding a regional perspective to the discussion.Â
MOE as a Business EnablerÂ
Participants discussed the need for MOE to evolve beyond recognition and certification.Â
Businesses shared how MOE certification has provided practical value by strengthening their Muslim-owned identity and credibility. Mr Ishak of Ooiishii, for example, shared how the certification helped clarify his business’s ownership when questions arose over its storefront branding.Â
Mr Abdul Latip of HSG Global highlighted opportunities for MOE-certified businesses to gain greater retail visibility. He also encouraged home-based businesses to formalise their operations so they can access more opportunities.Â
The discussion reinforced that certification can be more than a badge. With the right support, it can become a gateway to stronger visibility, credibility, and growth.Â
Building a Stronger NetworkÂ
Participants also highlighted the importance of collaboration within the MOE community. Ideas included joint merchandising, wholesale opportunities, cross-promotion, shared platforms, and referrals.Â
 Initiatives such as the SMCCI e-card and future digital platforms can make it easier for businesses to discover one another, connect, and explore partnerships.Â
 A stronger network can help businesses reduce costs, increase revenue, share resources, and access new markets.Â
Supporting Halal GrowthÂ
Participants also discussed how MOE could complement Singapore’s wider halal ecosystem by providing education and developmental support to businesses considering MUIS halal certification.Â
There was interest in greater support for halal sourcing, supply chains, market expansion, and entry into regional markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Cambodia.Â
The roundtable highlighted the potential for MOE to become more than a certification. It can serve as part of a broader business growth journey, helping enterprises build stronger foundations and prepare for larger opportunities.Â
As SMCCI and SEPL continue developing the MOE platform, the focus remains on creating practical value through stronger connectivity, market access, capability building, and collaboration.Â
Are you an MOE-certified business looking to explore new partnerships, market opportunities, or ways to grow within the network? Reach out to SEPLÂ (sufyan@smcci.org.sg)Â to learn more about upcoming opportunities and how your business can get involved.