@Halal April 2019 | Page 22

22 @Halal | april-may. 2019 Event MIHAS the growth of halal Malaysia T he Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, also known as MATRADE, have always seen the potential of Malaysia as a global halal hub. According to Dato’ Wan Latiff Wan Musa, chief executive officer of MATRADE, it is because of this that MATRADE have supported the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS). Below are his words as he welcomes this year’s MIHAS, furthering the effort to make Malaysia the centre for halal trade; We are truly humbled and proud to wit- ness the growth of MIHAS as a world-class trade fair. When it was incepted in 2004, the event was a mere B2C event. Over the years, it gradually emerged as a B2B platform for the world’s industry players to congregate. This year, MIHAS 2019 brings together over 1,000 exhibitors from more than 40 coun- tries under one roof, showcasing the world’s halal products and services. This sure is an achievement for not only the organiser but Malaysia as a nation too MIHAS is unique as it features various key sectors within the whole Islamic economy supply chain, beyond Food & Beverages, such as Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Finance, eCommerce, Tourism, Logistics, and more. This year, the event welcomes a new addi- tion - Modest Fashion – an emerging sector valued at USD270 billion. As a platform for industry players to dis- cover the latest halal products and services, MIHAS provides you with an unprecedented opportunity to connect with peers from various nations and such interaction will catalyse exchange of industry insights. This will not only strengthen the economic relations between Malaysia the world, but position Malaysia as the sourcing hub for halal products and services. The growth of MIHAS is multifaceted, with one being a thought leadership plat- form for industry players. This year, MIHAS 2019 will host six high-impact conferences and 30 thematic seminars by leading indus- try experts taking place at the Industry Zone. Complementing this initiative is a newly introduced area called the MIHAS Theatre. All in, in championing thought leadership in halal, there will be approximately 150 discussions and presentations by industry experts on various topics. Serving the Global Muslim Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) is an annual international halal trade show hosted by the Ministry of Inter- national Trade and Industry (MITI), Malaysia, and is organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). This year will be the 16th edition of MIHAS. Standing on the shoulders of the event’s past success, MIHAS 2019 is expected to exceed its predecessor’s achievements. With strong sup- port from sponsors, exhibitors, trade visitors and members of media, MIHAS has strength- ened its position as the largest Halal-focused trade show, making it the centre point for industry players to converge under one roof. The 4-day event will feature more than 1,000 exhibitors from around the world to showcase their latest offerings. This year’s MIHAS will showcase an exciting array of products and services within the global halal industry across the following eight clusters. Other notable features of the 16th edition of MIHAS include: Over 1,000 exhibitors from 70 countries showcasing the latest products, services, and innovations of the halal industry. The International Sourcing Programme (INSP) hosted by MATRADE, which will con- nect over 150 selected buyers from around the globe with over 400 Malaysian companies seeking the opportunity to export their products. Trade Talk by MATRADE officers who will deliver international market insights. Islamic Tourism Conference by Islamic Tourism Center and HalalTrip that will provide the latest Halal tourism industry developments. IMHalal Conference by iHALALMAS@ FBUiTM, which brings together international and local practitioners and academics to develop ideas and initiatives for the Halal industry. Halal Innovation Forum by World Startup Festival to strengthen Malaysia’s economy through Islamic Digital Initiatives and enhance Malaysia’s Halal Ecosystem through technology and e-commerce. “Halal Corridor”, which is being introduced by CIMB Investment Bank Bhd to support the transaction and business activities within the whole Halal industry.