LIFESTYLE

@ Halal | July-August. 2025

� Halal Forum 2025 showcased Malaysia’ s leadership in the global halal industry, bringing together key stakeholders to explore innovation, market opportunities, and regulatory developments within the halal ecosystem.

� The event highlighted how halal is evolving into a lifestyle choice, increasingly embraced by both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers for its association with.

� The event provided a valuable platform for SMEs and startups to gain insights, network globally, and explore opportunities for halal market expansion.

Datuk Chan Foong Hin

BY FARISHA RAHMAN

As halal-certified products gain popularity across both Muslim and non-Muslim markets, the event demonstrated how halal is becoming a mainstream lifestyle choice. This transformation aligns with the principles of wellness, transparency, and responsible consumption.

REGIONAL HALAL LEADER

Set amidst Malaysia’ s reputation as a halal authority, the forum gathered key players from throughout the halal value chain. These included regulators, certification bodies, manufacturers, market strategists, and entrepreneurs. All were dedicated to enhancing the role of halal within the global food and beverage( F & B) sector.

Recent statistics highlight Malaysia’ s increasing influence. In 2024, the country exported over RM61.79 billion worth of halal products. This growth is driven by strong government support and trade initiatives.

Malaysia’ s active promotion of halal practices and innovation has cemented its position as the leading hub for halal trade and innovation in Southeast Asia.

During the launch of FDM2025, Comexposium Southeast Asia Director Henri Tan highlighted that the exhibition was more than just a trade event. He described it as a gateway for local F & B players to access international markets.

He emphasised that FDM not only connects businesses to glob-

AWARD-WINNING INNOVATION: Symphony Confection Sdn Bhd receives the Gold Award for its Black Sesame Cream at the SIAL Innovation Awards Malaysia 2025.

HALAL INSIGHTS SHARED: Industry leaders and experts engage in forum sessions exploring innovation, ethics, and global trends shaping the future of halal.

al buyers but also promotes local innovation and sustainability, making it a strategic enabler of Malaysia’ s halal economy.

CROSS-SECTOR SYNERGY

Held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre( MITEC), FDM2025 attracted over 18,000 visitors and 500 exhibitors from 60 countries. More than 20 international pavilions represented regions such as ASEAN, Europe, and North America. The event’ s diverse e ipation was a testament to partic-

halal’ s rising global appeal.

The Halal Forum 2025 stood out as a dedicated segment that addressed the pressing opportunies facing

ties and challenges the halal sector. sions such as“ Why

Ses- Halal” and“ Halal is

Henri Tan

Not Just for Muslims” highlighted the increasing demand for halal products among non-Muslim consumers, particularly in Europe and Asia.

Halal is increasingly seen as a standard for hygiene, ethical sourcing, and food safety. These values go beyond religion.

Speakers discussed how halal certification is now viewed not just as a religious obligation but also as a mark of quality and trust. Topics covered included traceabil- ity, consumer behaviour, digital marketplace compliance, and cross-border halal certifica- tion. These are vital areas as businesses aim to meet the increasing demands for trans- parency and integrity. Workshops at the fo- rum also provided valuable insights, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises( SMEs) and start-ups seeking to scale in the halal market. These sessions covered certification pathways, market entry strategies, and region-specific regulations. They provided practical knowledge to help businesses expand globally while adhering to halal standards.

AWARDING HALAL SUCCESS

Beyond knowledge-sharing, FDM2025 celebrated innovation and excellence through awards and a showcase. One highlight was the SIAL Innovation Awards Malaysia, which was held in the country for the first time. Symphony Confection Sdn Bhd clinched the Gold Award for its Symphony Spread Black Sesame Cream. Musarium Co. from Thailand and KosmodeHealth Singapore took home the Silver and Bronze awards, respectively.

The event also featured The Chocolate Show, supported by the Malaysian Cocoa Brand, and Future Food and Agriculture sessions by Impact Circle, which explored sustainable practices shaping the next generation of halal products.

Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Chan Foong Hin praised the venture for strengthening international partnerships and advancing Malaysia’ s leadership in halal innovation. He also noted the upcoming SIAL Shenzhen exhibition as a continuation of this global collaboration.

TRUSTED HALAL CHOICE

The Halal Forum 2025 reaffirmed that halal is no longer confined to religious boundaries. It is a lifestyle rooted in integrity, sustainability, and trust. As halal products become an integral part of ethical consumerism worldwide, businesses must adapt, innovate, and connect to meet the growing demand for these products.

The forum served as both a thought leadership stage and a practical guide for navigating the expanding halal economy. For industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and lifestyle brands alike, it offered a clear message. Halal is not just a label. It is a global movement shaping the future of how we live, eat, and connect.-