UIN Ar-Raniry ready to pioneer KHAS zone in Aceh's higher education institutions

Banda Aceh (ANTARA) - Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh has stated its readiness to become a pioneer in implementing the Halal, Safe, and Healthy Culinary Zone (KHAS) within higher education environments in Aceh.

“The designation of UIN Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh as a location for developing the KHAS Zone represents a strategic step in building a halal ecosystem within the academic environment and strengthening its position as a leading sharia-based campus,” said the Rector of UIN Ar-Raniry, Prof Mujiburrahman, in Banda Aceh on Tuesday.

He explained that the development of the KHAS Zone will focus on canteens and strategic campus areas, considering aspects of feasibility, cleanliness, and ease of access for the academic community.

“This is not just a programme, but part of strengthening UIN Ar-Raniry’s identity as an Islamic-based campus integrated with sharia economic practices,” he said.

The Executive Director of the Aceh Sharia Economy and Finance Committee (KDEKS), Prof Syahrizal Abbas, stated that UIN Ar-Raniry has significant potential to become a model for KHAS Zone development in Aceh.

“UIN possesses academic strengths and resources that support the development of a halal ecosystem, including study programmes related to the halal industry,” he said.

He explained that the KHAS Zone is a national programme aimed at ensuring that products and services in a particular area meet integrated halal, safe, and healthy standards.

“This can serve as a living laboratory for students in developing the sharia economy, while also promoting the digitalisation of transactions through QRIS,” he said.

UIN Ar-Raniry is expected not only to be an implementer but also a role model for KHAS Zone development at regional and national levels.

The declaration of commitment for KHAS Zone development in higher education environments is scheduled to take place as part of the Road to Aceh Sharia Economic Festival in late April 2026.