@Halal January/February 2025 | Page 7

MIHAS @ DUBAI 07
January-February . 2025 | @ Halal

MIHAS @ DUBAI 07

“ As a strategic platform , MIHAS @ Dubai has opened up a wide space for 215 Malaysian companies to introduce our halal products and services to the global market , especially in the MENA region , which has over 490 million users .”
– Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
Reezal Merican Naina Merican
positioning itself as a key hub for Malaysian halal products and services .
Through MATRADE ’ s global network and the INSP , Malaysian exporters were able to connect with international buyers . While it has led to significant sales agreements , it also laid the groundwork for long-term partnerships .
The participation of UAE companies , alongside a global audience , at MIHAS @ Dubai reflects the shared commitment to expanding halal trade across international markets .
GLOBAL EXPANSION
The success of MIHAS @ Dubai not only proved the growing global demand for halal products , but it has also set a new benchmark for future showcases . With that , MATRADE hopes to bring MIHAS to other key global cities to achieve even greater success .
This initiative aligns with Malaysia ’ s strategy to reinforce its presence in international halal markets and unlock new opportunities for exporters .
“ Hosting MIHAS in other cities will be a game-changer , promoting Malaysia ’ s halal expertise further and connecting our businesses with untapped markets ,” said Reezal .
This expansion reflects MATRADE ’ s broader vision of empowering Malaysian businesses to succeed on the global stage while enhancing the global halal ecosystem .
As MIHAS @ Dubai concludes , the event stands as a testament to Malaysia ’ s resilience , innovation , and commitment to the global halal economy . Beyond the record-breaking numbers , the showcase symbolised the power of halal trade to bridge cultures , foster mutual understanding , and drive sustainable growth .
“ This showcase is not just about numbers ; it ’ s about relationships and trust . The MENA region offers immense potential for our halal industry , and MIHAS @ Dubai has paved the way for sustainable partnerships that will benefit all stakeholders ,” said Mustafa .
Added Zahid : “ Moving forward , I am confident that Malaysia , through the diligent efforts of Agencies such as MATRADE , will continue to take advantage of opportunities like MIHAS to strengthen the country ’ s position in the global halal market .
“ May we continue to forge ahead in our efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth and strategic cooperation that brings mutual benefits .”
The success of MIHAS @ Dubai was made possible with the support of its partners . Serving as the strategic partner was DXN Holdings Berhad , while Bubbles O2 Marketing Sdn Bhd was the preferred beverage partner , and Westports Holdings Berhad was the logistics partner .
Reezal also highlighted the collaboration of various parties , acknowledging the collective effort that contributed to the success : “ It is the result of the hard work of the entire MATRADE team with the support of various parties including ministries , agencies , State governments , representative offices in Dubai , and of course the trust of 215 entrepreneurs who see the great potential of MIHAS beyond national borders .” –
and one Memorandum of Agreement ( MOA ). Key agreements included :
• MATRADE and EXIM Bank : Collaboration to enhance financial support for Malaysian exporters .
• Hijrah Nature Herbs ( M ) Sdn Bhd and Canter & Company ( Hong Kong ): Partnership aimed at expanding Malaysia ’ s herbal products internationally .
• Agym Nutrition Sdn Bhd and Stamina AE LLC ( UAE ): Agreement to strengthen the halal nutrition market in the UAE .
• ANH Smart Venture Sdn Bhd and Ralex Services L . L . C-FC ( UAE ): Joint effort technological innovations in halal ventures .
• Bubbles O2 Marketing Sdn Bhd and Richiamo Coffee Sdn Bhd : To promote Malaysia ’ s vibrant beverage industry globally .
These agreements not only strengthen trade relations but also open doors for long-term growth and cooperation between Malaysian companies and international partners .
The United Arab Emirates ( UAE ) stands as Malaysia ’ s second-largest trading partner within the MENA region . From Jan to Oct 2024 , bilateral trade between the two nations reached US $ 7.98 billion . This impressive figure highlights the strong economic ties and the significant increase in trade volume .
In terms of exports , Malaysia exported US $ 2.61 billion worth of goods to the UAE , with key export categories including jewellery , electrical and electronic ( E & E ) products , petroleum products , processed food , palm oil and palm oil-based agricultural products .
The halal industry plays a vital role in the Malaysia-UAE trade relations , with the UAE
Interactions during the INSP programme .
Trade visitors trying Malaysian durian .