Kuala lumpur: The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025 has reported RM4.97 billion in sales by the third day of the event, and this figure is expected to continue rising, according to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MATRADE chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican highlighted the significant performance, attributing it to the strong global confidence in Malaysia’s halal products. He stated that the sales momentum has been driven by international buyers’ trust in Malaysia’s halal certification, which is recognized for its stringent standards.
Reezal Merican expressed gratitude to the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), emphasizing that its halal certification is considered the ‘gold standard’. He referenced Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s statement that halal is not merely a label but a symbol of trust, noting that JAKIM’s logo assures consumers of quality.
Discussing sectoral contributions, Reezal Merican mentioned that the food and beverages (F and B) sector remained a crucial driver. However, he noted that the sector accounted for only 2.8 per cent of Malaysia’s total exports of approximately RM1.5 trillion last year. This contribution was largely from large local companies and multinationals like Nestl©. He emphasized the need to encourage greater participation from small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
To date, MIHAS 2025 has drawn 40,000 trade visitors from 100 countries, and nearly 1,000 foreign and local buyers and sellers have participated in over 4,000 business-matching meetings through its International Sourcing Programme (INSP). The event also featured knowledge-sharing sessions with speakers from global and regional brands such as FedEx, Zus Coffee, and Grey Caf©.
The Global Halal Summit 2025, held in conjunction with MIHAS 2025, was launched by the prime minister, highlighting Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to leading the global halal industry. The MIHAS Awards 2025, themed ‘Pinnacle of Halal Excellence,’ celebrated innovators and leaders in the halal industry, acknowledging achievements in sustainability, digitalisation, export performance, and societal contributions.