Indonesian women not only dominate the MSME sector but are also beginning to play a strategic role in the halal industry, including halal cosmetics. Their fighting spirit and resilience are key to producing products that are not only competitive but also compliant with Sharia values, supported by halal certification from LPPOM as a guarantee of quality. This makes women a crucial driving force in the national and global halal economy.
Indonesian women are increasingly demonstrating their vital role in national economic development. More than 12 million women are recorded as Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This figure not only reflects the enormous economic potential of women but also demonstrates their resilience and fighting spirit in driving the economy of their families and the nation.
This was conveyed by the Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection of the Republic of Indonesia, Arifah Fauzi, at the 10th Indonesia Conference on Women and Sharia Community Empowerment (ICWSCE) seminar held at the 7th Indonesia International Halal Lifestyle Conference (INHALIFE), which was part of the Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival (ISEF) 2025 series of events at the Jakarta International Expo (JIExpo) on October 10, 2025.
In her presentation, Arifah emphasized that in today’s modern era, entrepreneurs, including women, face increasingly complex challenges. Sustainable economic growth requires not only innovation but also social awareness and environmental responsibility.
“Women, especially Muslim women, play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. They not only strive for individual success but also contribute to national economic progress and make a real impact on society,” Arifah said.
Furthermore, Arifah added that women’s contributions to the economic sector must continue to be supported by all elements of the nation, so that their potential can develop optimally and sustainably.
Meanwhile, according to Filianingsih Hendarta, Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, the role of women in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector is significant. Data from the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs in 2024 showed that 64.5% of the total 65.5 million MSMEs were managed by women. Considering that MSMEs contribute 61.9% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), women’s contributions cannot be ignored.
“Three main halal sectors with great potential for women to dominate are halal food and beverages, Muslim fashion, and halal cosmetics. Through innovation and creativity, Indonesian women can play strategic roles as producers, innovators, and leaders in the global halal economy,” said Filianingsih.
On the same occasion, Mulyorini Rahayuningsih Hilwan, Head of the Halal Audit Quality Board of LPH LPPOM, explained that halal certification represents an extraordinary opportunity for all business actors, including MSMEs, to increase competitiveness and expand their markets, both domestically and globally. LPH LPPOM continues to encourage businesses, no matter how small, to understand the importance of halal certification as part of a sustainable business strategy.
“In this regard, the beauty industry is a highly promising sector. Many consumers, especially the younger generation, are now more concerned with the ingredients, production processes, and business ethics behind a product. When a brand can demonstrate that its products are halal throughout, it will automatically be perceived as responsible, transparent, and trustworthy,” explained Mulyoriningsih.
She also explained that MSMEs have a significant opportunity to build their businesses based on halal principles from the outset. By implementing these principles, small businesses can create strong market differentiation while increasing consumer trust in their products. Halal certification not only demonstrates compliance with sharia law but can also serve as a gateway into a broader supply chain, including opening up export opportunities to Muslim-majority countries.
Furthermore, halal certification is tangible evidence that MSMEs are capable of conducting their businesses with high standards, upholding the values of usefulness, integrity, and sustainability. This proves that MSMEs can compete in the global market, as long as they have a strong commitment to quality and their values.
“We at LPH LPPOM continue to strengthen the national halal ecosystem so that MSMEs receive the broadest possible access, assistance, and opportunities. We believe that with consistency and commitment, MSMEs can become the vanguard of the Indonesian halal industry, even on the global stage,” he concluded.
According to Paragon’s Corporate Affairs Director, Astri Wahyuni, public awareness of halal products has increased in recent years. However, for Paragon, the halal concept extends beyond labels or certifications; it serves as the overall foundation of the company’s operations. She views halal as more than just a trend, but a philosophy of life and a commitment to benefit, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Astri also explained that Paragon’s declaration as a halal brand reflects the company’s commitment to implementing halal principles comprehensively, from upstream to downstream. She stated that Paragon’s business processes are designed to promote goodness, from the use of ingredients that are not only halal but also safe, to the selection of environmentally friendly and recyclable packaging. Even in communications and advertising, Paragon upholds Islamic values and ethics.
“Globally, we have expanded to several countries, such as Malaysia and Brunei. In fact, we continue to explore new markets because Indonesia’s halal product export potential is enormous. We believe that when a business consistently commits to halal certification, penetrating the global market is no longer just a dream, but a very real possibility,” explained Astri.
Halal certification is not just about legal compliance. It is an investment in trust. Muslim consumers are now increasingly discerning in selecting products that comply with Islamic law. With halal certification, cosmetic brands will be more trusted and even accepted in the global market. With increasing consumer awareness, halal certification is no longer an optional option, but rather a necessity and a long-term investment for the sustainability of the cosmetics business in Indonesia.
In this regard, LPH LPPOM is ready to assist every cosmetic business actor in the halal certification process, ensuring the availability of halal products for the public and ensuring a sense of security and comfort for Muslim consumers in Indonesia, especially when using cosmetic products.
Furthermore, LPH LPPOM services are now more accessible. Businesses can also obtain public information regarding the halal certification process easily and quickly through Customer Care services at Call Center 14056 and WhatsApp 0811-1148-696. The LPH LPPOM also holds free online classes on “Halal Certification Introduction” (PSH) every second and fourth week of each month at halalmui.org/pengenalan-sertifikasi-halal. (ZUL)
