Yogyakarta, July 13^th, 2024 - The topic of "Halal Informatics" opened on the fifth day of the 2024 Summer Course. The material, presented by Prof. Dr. Ir. Shofwatul ‘Uyun, S.T., M.Kom. IPM. ASEAN Eng. was engaging and dynamic. Moderated by Mandahadi Kusuma, M.Eng., the first session explored the role of technology and information in supporting halal principles in various aspects of life. She explained how the Internet of Things (IoT) can be utilized to support and improve Halal Supply Chain Management Activity through technologies such as RFID, QR Codes, WSN, GPS, Sensors and Actuators, and Blockchain Technology. An example given was how IBM Food Trust uses blockchain technology to track products from farmers to end consumers.

"Blockchain technology is a decentralized digital ledger system that records transactions across multiple computers in a way that ensures the security, transparency, and immutability of the data. Blockchain technology consist of chain of blocks where each block contains a list of transactions or timestamps and a cryptography hash of the pre-fills block, making it not only impossible to author the data toward in report”, she explained.

Furthermore, she highlighted how Industry 4.0 technology can be integrated into the halal supply chain. Real-time monitoring, traceability, and authentication are critical components that ensure the integrity and quality of halal products from production to consumption. With the rapid advancement of technology, it is essential to ensure that innovations align with halal values and principles.

The second session continued with an exercise mentored by Dian Aruni Kumalawati, M.Sc. This session thoroughly examined the topic of halal certification for medicines containing alcohol or narcotic drugs. Participants were allowed to discuss in breakout rooms, guided by their group LOs. The session concluded with presentations showcasing the discussions and solutions proposed by each group. This intensive discussion provided a deep understanding of implementing halal principles in the context of sensitive pharmaceuticals.

"Most of the participants agree on the use of alcohol and narcotic drugs under specific conditions, which are, of course, strictly regulated," she concluded.

This discussion not only provided insight into halal certification within a complex industry but also emphasized the importance of adhering to halal principles in the development and distribution of modern medicines.