On 20th September 2024, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) marked a significant milestone with the 11th edition of the MIHAS Awards, which honoured exceptional contributions to the global Halal industry. The awards continue to set a high standard for excellence, emphasising the importance of sustainability and innovation in the ever-evolving Halal market.

This year, the MIHAS Awards introduced a new category focused on sustainability, underscoring MATRADE’s commitment to supporting companies that prioritise environmentally responsible and socially conscious practices. The Sustainability Award recognised businesses that have successfully embedded sustainable methods into their operations, highlighting MATRADE’s dedication to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable growth, particularly within the Halal sector.

The MIHAS Awards acknowledge industry leaders who excel in sustainability and innovation across various sectors. A distinguished panel of judges, comprising experts from different industries and academia, evaluated the nominees. Candidates were assessed based on their commitment to sustainability, their impact on the market, and strict adherence to Halal standards, ensuring that only the most deserving trailblazers within the industry were recognised.

The 11th MIHAS Awards saw a notable increase in participation, reflecting the expanding and diversifying Halal economy. This year’s awards drew a wide range of entries, with strong representation from the Halal lifestyle and services sectors.

In his remarks, MATRADE Chairman Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican stated, 

“The strong presence of Halal lifestyle products and services in this year’s awards demonstrates the dynamism and innovation that are driving the Halal industry. Sectors such as cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology are increasingly adopting Halal principles, setting new benchmarks in the global market.”

A total of fourteen awards were presented across three main categories: the Product and Services Excellence Award, the Products and Services Innovative Award, and the Sustainability Award.

Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn Bhd won the Product Excellence Award for its Halal pet food brand, PowerCat, while HYT Cross Border Sdn Bhd claimed the Services Excellence Award for its cutting-edge e-Commerce solutions.

Callabio Manufacturing Sdn Bhd was recognised for its Halal-certified syrups under the Baristar brand. Launched in 2023, Baristar offers unique flavours that elevate drinks, foods, and desserts with a distinctly Malaysian touch.

The Products Innovative Award was awarded to World Prominence Sdn Bhd for its Sudee brand dry pastes, while AFM Fulfillment (M) Sdn Bhd took home the Services Innovative Award for its advanced, one-stop e-commerce fulfilment solutions.

The Sustainability Award went to B-Crobes Marketing Sdn Bhd for its research-driven innovations aimed at improving gut health and effectively managing non-communicable diseases.MATRADE’s focus on sustainability and sectoral diversity aligns with Malaysia’s National Halal Industry Master Plan, which aims to position the country as a global leader in innovation. The diversity of Halal clusters at MIHAS demonstrates the versatility and global appeal of Malaysia’s Halal industry, further establishing the nation as a key hub in the international Halal ecosystem.

“We are incredibly proud of the diversity and quality of the entries in this year’s MIHAS Awards,” said Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican. “The wide range of products and services, combined with a strong commitment to sustainability practices, will help drive the growth of the global Halal market, solidifying Malaysia’s role as a leader in the global Halal industry.”

With the 2024 MIHAS Awards, MATRADE continues to elevate the standards of the Halal sector, encouraging industry players to innovate, embrace sustainability, and contribute to the ongoing global growth of Halal products and services.