LOCAL NEWS 07
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March-April. 2025 | @ Halal
LOCAL NEWS 07
SME Bank boosts Malaysian halal exports
MALAYSIAN small a n d m e d i u m e n t e r p r i s e s( SMEs) continue to strengthen their presence in the global halal market, securing RM140 million in potential export sales at Gulfood Dubai 2025, the world’ s largest annual food and beverage( F & B) trade fair.
Led by SME Bank, 11 Malaysian SMEs participated in the event, showcasing their halal-certified products to international buyers.
SME Bank’ s Acting Group President and Chief Executive Officer( CEO), Datuk Dr Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, highlighted the bank’ s commitment to boost-
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ing local businesses through the Export Acceleration Mission( EAM) and Business Exports Programme( BEP).
“ Since our first participation in 2023, we have helped 33 Malaysian companies expand globally, generating RM378 million in potential sales. Through our collaboration with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation( MATRADE), we are ensuring Malaysian halal products gain a stronger foothold in international markets,” he said.
The event also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding( MoU) between World Prominence Sdn Bhd and Senior Global LLC from the UAE, further strengthening Malaysia’ s halal trade network.
OFFICIAL LAUNCH: Datuk Dr Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting Group ������������������������������������������������������������������������ accompanied by other distinguished guests.
Additionally, local SMEs launched new halal-certified products, including Nims Adeliciousz Sdn Bhd’ s Nims Cereal and Choco Drinks and BS Fitness Nutrition Sdn Bhd’ s BS Protein Cookies.
Malaysia’ s F & B sector, known for its strong halal credentials, plays a crucial role in the leading nation’ s economy. With growing global demand for halal products, initiatives like Gulfood Dubai provide SMEs with strategic opportunities to expand their reach.
SME Bank continues to support local businesses through financing programmes such as HalalBiz Financing and the Halal Entrepreneurship Development Programme, reinforcing Malaysia’ s position as a leader in the global halal market.
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BANK Muamalat Malaysia Berhad( Bank Muamalat) and Koperasi Harapan Sarawak Berhad( KOHAB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding( MoU) to enhance financial literacy among civil servants in Sarawak.
The collaboration, formalised at the Hilton Hotel, Kuching, on Feb 13, 2025, aims to provide government employees with financial education and access to Shariahcompliant banking solutions.
As part of the initiative, Bank Muamalat will offer free financial advisory services under its Smart Financial Programme. At the same time, KOHAB will facilitate salary deductions for financing payments, ensuring better financial management for its members.
President and Chief Executive
Officer of Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad, Khairul Kamarudin, emphasised the partnership’ s role in fostering responsible financial habits.
“ By integrating structured financial education with accessible Islamic banking solutions, we are reinforcing our commitment to responsible banking while expanding our reach among civil servants,” he said.
The initiative aligns with the Malaysian government’ s financial inclusion agenda, ensuring that public servants make informed financial decisions. It also strengthens Bank Muamalat’ s presence in East Malaysia, reinforcing its mission to provide ethical and Shariah-compliant financial solutions.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: Bank Muamalat and Koperasi Harapan Sarawak Bhd( KOHAB) signed the Memorandum of Understanding( MoU) at the Hilton Hotel, Kuching.
IN a vibrant celebration of Ramadan and Aidilfitri, AmBank Group successfully hosted two festive carnivals and three Ramadan bazaars across key locations in Malaysia, bringing together communities in the spirit of unity and entrepreneurship.
Held in conjunction with AmBank’ s 50th Anniversary, the“ AmBank Fiesta Raya @ The Curve” and“ AmBank Bazar Ramadan @ Foodpark, Matic” transformed their venues into bustling hubs of festive cheer on Mar 3-29, 2025.
The events featured over 300 vendors offering Raya essentials, fashion, and traditional delicacies. Shoppers also had the opportunity to interact with local celebrities and support social enterprises such as Ibupreneur, MySkills Foundation, and the Malaysian Association for the Blind( MAB).
Beyond Kuala Lumpur, AmBank extended the celebration with“ Bazar Ramadan Tradisi” at Datuk Keramat, Jalan Padi Mahsuri( Johor Bahru), and Kemunting( Taiping).
These bazaars provide a platform for small businesses and local traders to showcase their products while fostering a sense of togetherness among visitors.
Shazman Shahid, Head of Group Corporate Communication and Marketing at AmBank, emphasised the importance of embracing Malaysia’ s diversity through such initiatives.
“ These carnivals are not just about shopping – they are about bringing people together, supporting small businesses, and sharing the joy of the festive season.”
As the Ramadan festivities conclude, AmBank’ s commitment to community and inclusivity remains at the heart of its celebrations. –