@Halal July/August 2024 | Page 10

10 Event

10 Event

@ Halal | July-August . 2024

Crossing borders

Malaysia Halal Expo 2024 underscores the rapid expansion of the halal industry

The frozen food wave

THE Malaysia Halal Expo 2024 provides a dedicated platform for businesses to exhibit their innovations and build connections . More than 130 companies , including numerous start-ups , participated in the event , presenting their offerings to over 240 markets .

Themed ‘ Crossing Borders ’ this year , the event aims to inspire small businesses to expand their reach internationally , transcending geographical boundaries . Additionally , boosting their international presence and competitiveness .
The Malaysia Halal Expo 2024 took place from June 28-30 at the MINES International Exhibition and Convention Centre ( MIECC ) in Kuala Lumpur .
This is the second year that the Malaysian Islamic Chamber of Commerce , locally known as DPIM , partnered with HQC Commerce Sdn Bhd as organisers of the event .
This year , the event witnessed participation from Bangladesh , Somalia , and the Republic of Guinea , underscoring the widespread global interest in Malaysia ’ s halal market .
This global participation not only enhances the event ’ s reputation but also signifies potential opportunities for international collaboration and trade , making you feel part of a larger , interconnected community .
Their involvement further enhances the event ’ s burgeoning global reputation , signifying possible opportunities for international collaboration and trade .
Additionally , the event featured several programmes focused on driving business growth . Among the critical programmes was
Friendly interactions at the Malaysia Halal Expo 2024 .
THE Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ) and the Malaysia Budget & Business Hotel Association ( MyBHA ) confirmed their collaboration at the Malaysia Halal Expo 2024 . This significant event was marked by the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding ( MoU ), a crucial step towards the development of Muslim-friendly tourism in Malaysia .
The collaboration with ITC includes developing the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality ( MFTH ) training modules . The modules will cover aspects such as halal food services , prayer facilities , and other amenities to guide hoteliers in catering to Muslim travellers .
“ The primary objective of this MoU is to educate the hoteliers , our members who are 3-star , 2-star , and 1-star hotels ,” said MyBHA National President and the Malaysian Tourism Federation ( MTF ) Secretary-General Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel .
Ganesh noted that many hoteliers operating lower-starred hotels need to be more aware of the requirements for providing Muslimthe business matching session , during which participants had the opportunity to connect with Mydin supermarket .
It was a valuable opportunity for participating businesses to present their products to one of Malaysia ’ s largest supermarket chains .
POSITIVE IMPACT
The Ministry of Health played a pivotal role in the event by organising a Food Safety and Certification Sharing Session .
This session provided attendees with crucial insights into meeting food safety standards and obtaining essential certifications , reinforcing the safety and quality of halal products and leaving you feeling reassured about the quality of the products in our industry .
The Halal Awareness Training programme , a significant highlight of the event , attracted over 250 participants . This programme effectively communicated the importance of halal certification and the necessary procedures , leaving attendees feeling informed .
DPIM is optimistic about how the event will positively impact the acquisition of halal certification among micro-enterprises .
That said , the event ’ s targeted programmes , such as Halal Awareness Training and the Ministry of Health ’ s Food Safety and Certification Sharing Session , are expected to increase the number of microenterprises with halal certification significantly .
These programmes aim to provide entrepreneurs in the halal industry with the essential knowledge and skills to run their businesses effectively and sustainably .
Additionally , a networking session took place to promote the exchange of business information among exhibitors , fostering valuable connections and collaborations .
Overall , the event highlighted the successful collaboration between DPIM and HQC Commerce . This partnership , which has significantly contributed to the growth and development of Malaysia ’ s halal industry , serves as an inspiring example of the potential of partnerships in our industry , leaving you feeling optimistic about future collaborations .
MAMARAI Ventures Sdn Bhd participated as an exhibitor at the Malaysia Halal Expo 2024 . The company showcased its range of premium frozen products , which included traditional pastries , ready-to-eat meals , and cooked dishes .
Mamarai ’ s products are designed for effortless preparation , requiring only microwaving or steaming , while preserving their authentic taste . The company ’ s unique selling point of easy preparation , combined with its catering services and restaurant in Kepong , sets it apart in the market .
As the frozen food trend gains momentum in Malaysia , Mamarai has strategically positioned itself as a leading manufacturer . By supplying to major retailers such as AEON , Mydin , and Sogo , Mamarai is at the forefront of this trend .
The company is also exploring opportunities in East Malaysia , Sabah and Sarawak , further solidifying its market presence .
Recognising the burgeoning global demand for frozen food and ready-to-eat meals , Mamarai is poised to expand its reach beyond Malaysia , tapping into a vast international market .
“ We are looking at Indonesia , Singapore and Brunei ,” said Mamarai Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Yussahril Ismail ( pic ) . “ Our products are certified halal by Jakim .”
This certification positions Mamarai as a trustworthy brand in the global halal market . It aims to use its halal certification as a competitive advantage to tap into international markets , where there is an increasing demand for halal-certified products .
Mamarai intends to penetrate the Chinese market to expand its global footprint . The company is actively seeking collaboration and partnerships with traders , distributors , and potential partners who share their interest in working together .

New MoU raises the bar

MoU signing between MyBHA and ITC .
Ganesh Michiel
friendly services . The training will guide MyBHA members in obtaining Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition ( MFAR ) from ITC , as well as other relevant certifications .
Professional knowledge is essential for administering halal food preparation services and qibla signs , among other things . A recognised certification can guarantee that these amenities are implemented correctly .
Plus , educating hotel operators and tourists about the significance of holding appropriate certifications will encourage tourists to choose certified hotels over unlicensed accommodations .
Ganesh believes that hotels are more inclined to seek accreditation through a simplified and affordable process . Therefore , MyBHA aims to streamline the certification process and lower the costs associated with certification .
The collaboration between MyBHA and ITC plays a critical role in enhancing Muslimfriendly accommodation offerings across the country .
Through this initiative , Malaysia ’ s status as a premier Muslim-friendly destination is expected to elevate , in addition to having a positive economic impact . This collaboration brings a promising future for hoteliers , offering them the opportunity to enhance their services and attract more guests . –