KUALA LUMPUR, THURSDAY, 18 APRIL 2024 – Malaysia’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the Halal industry will be strongly reflected in this year’s edition of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2024). MIHAS 2024, themed “Globalising Halal Innovations”, will be positioned as the leading platform for global Halal companies to showcase their most innovative Halal products, services and technologies through 14 curated clusters. 

MIHAS 2024, which is hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), will run from 17 to 20 September 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC). 

This year’s edition of MIHAS, which pushes for greater innovation within the global Halal ecosystem, will not only solidify Malaysia’s position as the global hub for the Halal industry but is also in line with the objectives of the country’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and the Halal Industrial Master Plan 2030 (HIMP 2030).

According to YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul bin Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, this emphasis on innovation and sustainability leverages the NIMP’s focus on transforming Malaysia’s economy by fostering economic complexity, advancing technological innovation, pursuing Net Zero emissions, and ensuring economic security and inclusivity, which are pivotal in Malaysia’s drive towards sustaining its leadership within the dynamic global Halal ecosystem.

“The development of the Halal industry fits in well with the MADANI concept where society will benefit from the job creation and an increase in the standard of living. Recognised as one of the high-impact industries in the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP), Halal plays a pivotal role in the overall development of our country,” he added.

The elements of innovation and sustainability will be showcased in the products and services promoted during MIHAS 2024. These product segments include pharmaceuticals, Islamic finance, fintech, lifestyle, modest fashion, food ingredients and related services. The overall emphasis will be on the value-added component and the value chain integrity offered by the Halal ecosystem.

Halal certification instils trust among global consumers and is often in line with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) expectations. Malaysia exported RM23.35 billion of Halal ingredients in 2022 (Source: Halal Development Corporation). According to a report by The Business Research Company in 2023 titled ‘Global Food Ingredients Market: Regional Comparisons’, the global Halal ingredients market is currently valued at more than US$60 billion.

In his speech during the soft launch, YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, the Chairman of MATRADE, emphasised MIHAS’ role in fostering dialogue and business connections that drive consumer confidence in Halal products and services, both through MIHAS and the International Sourcing Programme (INSP).

Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican stated that this year’s showcase aims to attract over 40,000 trade visitors and feature 2,000 exhibition booths from 45 countries, including Malaysia.

“MIHAS has continuously attracted numerous buyers, distributors, and investors worldwide. Serving as a comprehensive hub, it offers businesses a platform to showcase the latest trends and technologies in the Halal industry, facilitating market expansion opportunities. By providing insights into market developments and consumer preferences, MIHAS is proven to be an enabler for businesses to stay abreast of industry advancements and maintain competitiveness in the global Halal market.”

He added that with a focus on fostering collaborations and facilitating access to global supply chains, MATRADE will continue to drive growth and sustainability in the Halal market. The INSP held in conjunction with MIHAS generated RM1.31 billion in sales last year and will continue to facilitate one-on-one business meetings between foreign buyers and Malaysian exporters. This initiative underscores the importance of a resilient supply chain and innovation in meeting the evolving demands of the global Halal market.

In addition, the MIHAS Knowledge Hub returns, offering a series of conferences, forums, and seminars focusing on providing insights into trends, market access and sourcing requirements with leading keynote speakers, industry experts, and thought leaders. The MIHAS Knowledge Hub consists of four components, with three focusing on market access and one on innovation. This initiative aims to provide an invaluable platform for the global Halal business community to exchange experiences and insights relevant to the industry.

MATRADE’s collaboration with industry partners ensures the ongoing relevance and success of MIHAS. These initiatives highlight MIHAS’ commitment to innovation, which has been recognised by the global trade community, including MATRADE being awarded the World Trade Promotion Organisation (WTPO) Award for ‘Best Use of Information Technology’ in 2022.

As MIHAS 2024 gears up for its 20th edition, it stands as a testament to Malaysia’s pioneering role in the Halal industry, supported by its well-developed Halal ecosystem. The milestone event symbolises two decades of dedication to fostering trade and innovation within the Halal sector, solidifying its position as a key platform for showcasing Halal products and services.

For further details on MIHAS 2024, visit https://mihas.com.my/.