Bohex Set to Attract 100,000+ Visitors This Year

From December 21 to December 25, the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in Kota Kinabalu will host the Borneo International Halal Exhibition (Bohex), a highly anticipated event expected to draw over 100,000 attendees. With more than 500 exhibition booths and a diverse line-up of international participants, Bohex is poised to be one of Asia’s largest halal industry gatherings.

A World-Class Halal Exhibition with a Global Draw

Bohex, the Borneo International Halal Exhibition, has gained widespread recognition for its impact on the halal industry, attracting attendees and exhibitors from across the globe. Organized by Eminent Source Sdn Bhd in partnership with the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), Bohex has become a vital platform for showcasing innovations in halal products, services, and practices.

The Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) will serve as the event’s expansive venue, equipped to accommodate the expected crowd and diverse exhibitor booths. The Bohex team has meticulously planned a program that brings together key players in the halal industry, offering attendees a comprehensive insight into halal products across various sectors, from food and fashion to cosmetics and logistics.

Bohex: A Key Player in the Expanding Halal Market

With an estimated 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, the global halal economy is booming. This includes not only food and beverage products but also services and goods that adhere to Islamic principles. Bohex has positioned itself as an essential connector within this market, providing a space where businesses can collaborate, exchange ideas, and create solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim consumers.

In recent years, the halal economy has expanded beyond traditional markets. The halal food industry alone is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2024, according to the State of the Global Islamic Economy report. Meanwhile, halal tourism, fashion, and cosmetics have seen exponential growth. Non-Muslim consumers are also showing interest in halal-certified products, valuing the quality assurance and ethical standards that these products represent. Bohex 2024 aims to cater to this broad and diverse audience, making it an essential event for businesses that want to thrive in the global halal market.

A Hub for International Participants and Economic Growth in Sabah

The Borneo International Halal Exhibition will feature exhibitors from countries across Asia and the Middle East, including Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, China, Thailand, Japan, and Saudi Arabia. For many international participants, Malaysia represents the gold standard in halal certification and practices, largely due to JAKIM’s rigorous standards. By participating in Bohex, companies from these countries gain access to invaluable insights into Malaysia’s halal framework and have the chance to adopt best practices in their markets.

Bohex’s Managing Director, Mohd Arieef Hafizi Mohd Hashim, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the opportunities it presents for both exhibitors and attendees. “Bohex embraces a comprehensive view of halal,” he shared, “spanning sectors like clothing, logistics, and more, all reflecting the depth and diversity of the halal concept.” As such, Bohex has emerged as a beacon for regional economic growth, stimulating trade, tourism, and collaboration. The event is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Sabah and Malaysia as a whole.

Supporting Local SMEs and Strengthening Malaysia’s Halal Economy

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are at the heart of Malaysia’s economy, contributing over 38% to the country’s GDP. Recognizing this, Bohex has established partnerships to provide vital support to SMEs, helping them showcase their products on an international platform. Eminent Source has teamed up with the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) to bring in hundreds of local halal-certified SMEs. FAMA’s involvement allows small businesses to make connections with international buyers, access new markets, and expand their visibility.

SMEs attending Bohex will benefit from tailored support programs, including workshops on global marketing strategies, access to financing options, and mentorship opportunities. This aligns with Malaysia’s broader goal of elevating halal-certified SMEs to a competitive level within the global market. By offering local entrepreneurs the chance to exhibit their products, Bohex is directly contributing to the expansion of Malaysia’s halal industry.

A Broad Spectrum of Halal Products and Services on Display

Bohex 2024 will showcase a wide range of halal products and services, providing attendees with a holistic view of the industry. While food and beverages remain a primary focus, the exhibition will extend to other rapidly growing segments, including halal fashion, cosmetics, personal care, and logistics. Each of these sectors addresses specific needs within the halal market, offering Muslim consumers ethical, high-quality, and religiously compliant options.

The halal beauty industry, for example, is projected to grow significantly, with halal-certified cosmetics becoming increasingly popular. At Bohex, attendees will be able to explore innovative beauty and personal care products that meet strict halal guidelines. Halal beauty brands from across the globe, including emerging players from Malaysia and established brands from the Middle East, will feature their latest offerings.

In addition to beauty, the halal fashion segment is another area of interest. The global halal fashion market has been valued at billions of dollars, driven by a younger generation seeking modest yet stylish clothing. Bohex will include a fashion showcase where brands display their latest halal-certified collections, highlighting trends in modest fashion and sustainable textiles.

Halal Logistics and Supply Chain Solutions

As the halal market grows, so does the need for effective logistics and supply chain solutions that ensure products maintain their halal status from production to consumption. Halal logistics is a critical yet often overlooked component of the industry. Bohex 2024 will highlight logistics solutions, with companies specializing in halal supply chains sharing best practices and innovations.

A key element in halal logistics is maintaining cleanliness and ensuring that no cross-contamination occurs during transport or storage. Logistics companies at Bohex will demonstrate the latest technology and processes they use to uphold these standards. For businesses looking to export to or import from halal markets, this is an invaluable resource that will help them meet the stringent requirements set by halal certification bodies like JAKIM.

Enhanced Accessibility: Free Shuttle Service for Attendees

To accommodate the large influx of attendees, Bohex organizers have arranged for free bus transportation from several strategic locations across Kota Kinabalu. Shuttle buses will run from the Suria Sabah shopping complex, Imago, 1Borneo, ITTC, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and the Pan Borneo Hotel directly to the SICC. This initiative ensures accessibility for all attendees, making it easy for both residents and international visitors to attend the event.

The provision of free transportation reflects Bohex’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, encouraging a broad spectrum of attendees to participate. By eliminating transportation costs, Bohex hopes to attract a wider audience, including young entrepreneurs, students, and international tourists who may be visiting Sabah specifically for the exhibition.

Educational Workshops and Knowledge-Sharing Sessions

Bohex 2024 will also feature a variety of workshops, panel discussions, and seminars aimed at educating attendees on the latest trends and challenges within the halal industry. Industry leaders, scholars, and entrepreneurs will share insights on topics such as digital transformation in halal certification, the future of halal tourism, and sustainable practices in the halal economy. For businesses looking to stay competitive, these sessions provide an opportunity to learn directly from experts.

One anticipated session is a panel on halal tourism, where industry specialists will discuss emerging trends in Muslim-friendly travel and how destinations can better accommodate Muslim tourists. With halal tourism projected to grow significantly in the coming years, this discussion will be relevant to both exhibitors and attendees. Attendees can also look forward to presentations from JAKIM representatives, who will explain Malaysia’s halal certification process and answer questions about the requirements for various products and services.

Bohex’s Contribution to Malaysia’s Halal Leadership

Malaysia has long been regarded as a leader in the halal industry, with a reputation built on JAKIM’s rigorous certification standards and the government’s commitment to supporting halal businesses. Bohex reinforces Malaysia’s standing as a global halal hub, offering a platform where Malaysian businesses can showcase their products to an international audience. For many attendees, Bohex serves as an entry point into Malaysia’s halal market, allowing them to better understand the country’s certification processes and connect with local suppliers.

In addition to enhancing Malaysia’s position within the halal sector, Bohex aligns with the country’s economic goals. Malaysia’s halal industry contributes significantly to its economy, with a projection to surpass $3 billion in exports by 2025. By attracting international participants and providing a platform for local businesses, Bohex actively contributes to these economic ambitions.

The Growing Demand for Halal Products Among Non-Muslim Consumers

One of the unique aspects of Bohex is its appeal beyond the Muslim community. Non-Muslim consumers and businesses have increasingly recognized the quality and ethical standards associated with halal products. Halal certification ensures that products are safe, ethically sourced, and environmentally responsible, making them attractive to a broader consumer base. This trend is particularly evident in the beauty and wellness industries, where halal-certified products are gaining popularity among consumers who prioritize clean and sustainable ingredients.

Bohex 2024 provides an opportunity for non-Muslim attendees to explore the halal market and learn more about the values and standards that define halal certification. This aligns with the broader trend of ethical consumerism, where buyers seek products that reflect their values.

Bohex: Shaping the Future of the Halal Industry

Bohex has grown beyond a trade show; it is now an influential event shaping the future of the halal industry. With its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration, Bohex is setting new benchmarks for what a halal exhibition can achieve. By bringing together industry leaders, SMEs, and consumers from around the world, Bohex fosters a dialogue on the future of halal and promotes a holistic approach to halal lifestyles.

As the global halal market continues to evolve, Bohex remains at the forefront, adapting to new trends and meeting the demands of an ever-expanding audience. For businesses looking to tap into the lucrative halal economy, Bohex 2024 offers an unparalleled platform to connect with consumers, forge new partnerships, and stay updated on the latest developments.

Conclusion: Anticipating a Successful Bohex 2024

With over 100,000 visitors expected to attend, Bohex 2024 is set to be a landmark event in the halal industry. From showcasing diverse halal products to providing educational insights and supporting local SMEs, Bohex continues to play a pivotal role in promoting halal practices and fostering economic growth in Malaysia and beyond.

As Bohex prepares to open its doors at the Sabah International Convention Centre, both attendees and exhibitors can look forward to a transformative experience. The event promises to not only enhance Malaysia’s reputation as a leader in halal certification but also to inspire innovation, collaboration, and growth within the global halal industry.