January-February . 2025 | @ Halal

Close-up of the intricate design details on Taqeeya ’ s abaya .

Uzbekistan ’ s booth at HIITS .

A look at fashion and tourism innovations at HIITS 2024

PT . Wahyu Promo Citra Project Director and HIITS Event Organiser Satrio Sukur emphasised strict compliance with halal certification standards as a key criterion when selecting exhibitors .

Among the standout exhibitors were Taqeeya and Uzbekistan Travel . Their offerings highlighted the expanding influence of halal beyond food .

MODEST FASHION

Taqeeya by Enggar , an Indonesian abaya brand with a 17-year legacy , recently won the Best Abaya Brand award at the prestigious Istanbul Halal Expo 2024 . This global recognition not only serves as a testament to Indonesia ’ s craftsmanship and creativity but also reassures the audience of the brand ’ s quality on the international stage .

Black is a signature element of Taqeeya ’ s identity . While all pieces are in black , each one features unique details that set it apart from other black abayas . Taqeeya Founder and Designer Enggar Rahardjo believes black is a colour favoured by many women due to its versatility and elegance .

“ It seems that all women like to wear black . So , we want to present this colour in a way that introduces a new expression for Muslim women ,” she remarked .

Taqeeya also adapts its collections to the cultural preferences of the countries where it exhibits , ensuring the designs resonate with local tastes while staying true to the brand ’ s identity .

“ When entering a new market , like Saudi Arabia , we first study the local preferences and abaya styles there . We then tailor these insights to fit Taqeeya ’ s design ethos .

“ This approach has consistently proven successful in penetrating new markets ,” said Enggar .

Enggar Rahardjo

Taqeeya ’ s latest collection , which was launched at HIITS , reimagines the classic abaya with a contemporary twist . The design includes cape sleeves , lending it a semiformal look .

According to Enggar , this style has been well-received in the Istanbul market , stating : “ People there love wearing caped abayas like this .”

Taqeeya ’ s abayas also feature intricate beading patterns , adding visual interest to the overall design . The beadwork , arranged in unique formations , reflects the brand ’ s attention to detail and craftsmanship . Combined with Taqeeya ’ s innovative approach , these details have played a key role in the brand ’ s positive reception .

Humoyun Magdiev

HALAL TOURISM

Representing a nation steeped in Islamic history and culture , Uzbekistan offers a welcoming experience for halal-conscious travellers . Uzbekistan Travel ’ s participation in HIITS 2024 is strategically aimed at showcasing its tourism potential .

With 80 per cent of its population being Muslim , Uzbekistan guarantees easy access to halal food and Muslim-friendly accommodations , a key concern for Muslim travellers .

“ Indonesian travellers won ’ t face any difficulties in finding halal meat or food here because everything is halal ,” said Humoyun Magdiev , representing Uzbekistan Travel .

Magdiev also highlighted the country ’ s well-developed infrastructure , including its luxury accommodations , from international chains such as Mercure and Intercontinental , and transportation options such as the bullet trains connecting key cities like Tashkent , Samarkand , Bukhara , and soon Khiva . This seamless connectivity ensures comfortable and efficient travel within the country .

Besides convenience , Uzbekistan ’ s appeal lies in its rich Islamic heritage . The country is home to significant sites , including the Imam al-Bukhari Mausoleum near Samarkand . For Indonesian travellers , Uzbekistan presents an opportunity to connect deeply with Islamic culture and history .

As Indonesian Muslim travellers increasingly demand integrated travel experiences , Uzbekistan aims to position itself as a stopover for Umrah pilgrims .

“ Indonesian Umrah agencies are showing interest in expanding their pilgrimage packages beyond traditional destinations and are already incorporating places like Turkey ,” noted Magdiev .

This trend opens opportunities for tailored travel packages , with potential for government support and strategic alliances . By integrating Uzbekistan into Umrah itineraries , Indonesian travel agencies can diversify their offerings while Uzbekistan strengthens its position as a premier destination for halal tourism .

MOVING FORWARD

Endorsed by Indonesia ’ s key halal authorities , The Halal Product Assurance Organising Body ( BPJPH ) and the National Committee for Shariah Economy and Finance ( KNEKS ), HIITS aligns with the nation ’ s vision of becoming a global halal hub . This support underscores the event ’ s role in advancing Indonesia ’ s halal economy .

“ There are plans to expand HIITS and Halal Fair outside of Indonesia , with Riyadh , Saudi Arabia , being considered as a potential future venue ,” shared Satrio .

This expansion would mark a significant step in extending the reach and influence of HIITS to the Middle East , a key region in the global halal market . Hosting the event in Riyadh would not only strengthen international collaborations but also position HIITS and Halal Fair as global platforms for promoting halal products , services , and initiatives . –