Uniting Global Halal Leaders and Innovators for a Future of Ethical Trade and Growth | by Sayd Haque

Kuala Lumpur witnessed a monumental event from September 17 to 19, 2024, as the Malaysia International Halal Exhibition (MIHAS) 2024 officially opened its doors at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). The event, held under the auspices of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and organized by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), attracted over 1,200 exhibitors and buyers from 66 countries, and is hailed as the largest halal exhibition globally.

In a heartfelt ceremony, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, was honored with the Special Award for Halal Development Icon. This award, presented by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the current Prime Minister, recognizes Tun Abdullah's pivotal role in establishing a robust halal ecosystem in Malaysia. “His leadership laid the foundation for a thriving halal industry that now has a global market value expected to reach USD 5 trillion by 2030,” remarked Anwar during the ceremony.

The Prime Minister emphasized, “The halal sector is not merely about compliance; it represents a commitment to quality, health, and ethical consumption. We must expand this narrative beyond the traditional understanding of halal as simply ‘no pork’ or ‘no alcohol’.” This vision for halal is shared among industry leaders and is essential for positioning Malaysia as a leader in the global halal market.

A Broader Perspective

YB Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul bin Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, highlighted the need for an all-encompassing halal ecosystem. He stated, “Halal certification is a gateway to accessing new markets. We are seeing increasing demand from countries beyond the Muslim world. Our commitment is to ensure Malaysia remains at the forefront of this industry.”

The event showcased a range of products and services, from food to cosmetics, all adhering to halal standards. MATRADE’s Chairman, YBhg. Reezal Merican bin Naina Merican, expressed pride in the exhibition's growth: “From humble beginnings, MIHAS has transformed into a global platform, generating over RM 24 billion in sales since its inception, with last year's sales reaching RM 3.2 billion.”

Achievements and Recognition

MIHAS not only promotes trade but also recognizes excellence within the halal industry. Various awards were presented during the event, including the Guinness World Record for the Largest Halal Trade Exhibition. The accolades underscore Malaysia's commitment to innovation and quality in the halal sector.

The presence of dignitaries and industry experts from countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and many others emphasized the event’s international significance. As the Prime Minister noted, “This exhibition is a testament to our collaborative spirit and the shared vision for a sustainable halal future. It’s about creating opportunities for everyone, from farmers to retailers.”

A Future Vision

As the exhibition continues, participants will engage in discussions, networking, and exploration of the latest halal trends and technologies. The emphasis on Maqasid Syariah—the objectives of Islamic law—reflects a commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. “The halal industry is about empowering communities and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth reach all levels of society,” stated the Deputy Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Zahid Hamidi.

As MIHAS 2024 unfolds, it becomes clear that the event is not merely a showcase of products; it’s a celebration of a shared vision for the future of halal. With a diverse range of participants and an agenda focused on collaboration and innovation, MIHAS 2024 is set to strengthen Malaysia's position as a global halal hub.