What Is the Role of Malaysia in the Global Halal Market?

The global halal industry is an immense powerhouse, currently valued at over $3.6 trillion and serving a vast population of more than 2 billion Muslims across the globe. This rapidly expanding market transcends geographical borders, with Malaysia emerging as a key player due to its strong Islamic heritage, well-established halal certification system, and forward-thinking policies. Positioned strategically at the forefront of this growth is the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS)—the world’s largest trade fair dedicated solely to halal products and services. MIHAS underscores Malaysia’s crucial role in the global halal economy and serves as a dynamic platform for innovation, collaboration, and market expansion for halal businesses worldwide.

MIHAS 2024: A Milestone Event in Halal Trade

Held in September 2024, MIHAS achieved a significant milestone, marking a record-breaking year for participation and global outreach. This year’s event had special significance as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in the halal industry. China stood out as the largest group of overseas exhibitors, signaling the growing interest and demand for halal-certified products within the Chinese market. This burgeoning interest further proves how MIHAS serves as a vital conduit for fostering international partnerships, providing businesses with opportunities to expand their global footprint.

Beyond Food: Expanding the Halal Market into Diverse Sectors

The halal industry is no longer confined to food and beverages. Over the past decade, it has expanded into sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, modest fashion, tourism, and Islamic finance. This diversification reflects the growing importance of halal certification, which guarantees compliance with Islamic principles while ensuring the highest standards of quality. At MIHAS 2024, over 2,000 exhibitors showcased the full breadth of this thriving sector, allowing attendees to witness firsthand the diversity of halal products and services.

A prime example of this innovation is the Sichuan Huiji Food Company from China, which showcased halal rice snacks and hand-crafted, sun-dried noodles. Such offerings cater to the increasing global demand for convenient yet authentic halal food products. By participating in MIHAS, companies like Sichuan Huiji are not merely displaying their products—they are establishing lasting business relationships with international buyers. As Dennis Wang, General Manager of Sichuan Huiji Food Company, remarked, “This exhibition is attracting people worldwide who want halal products, connecting us with markets in Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.” This highlights the crucial role of MIHAS in facilitating cross-border trade and expanding the reach of halal-certified goods.

Global Recognition of Malaysia’s Leadership in the Halal Economy

MIHAS 2024’s opening ceremony placed Malaysia’s pivotal role in the global halal economy under the spotlight. In his keynote speech, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stressed the significance of international cooperation in capitalizing on the halal market’s exponential growth. He emphasized that Malaysia’s leadership in halal certification, regulatory standards, and policy-making is integral to the industry’s success. “Leaders globally have acknowledged Malaysia’s efforts in promoting halal trade and fostering partnerships,” he noted, underscoring the country’s commitment to advancing the global halal agenda.

The event attracted exhibitors from 66 countries and multiple continents, further solidifying MIHAS’s status as a truly global platform for knowledge-sharing, networking, and exploring new business opportunities. Rian Maelzer, a reporter from CGTN, aptly summarized the global significance of the event: “MIHAS exemplifies the globalization of the halal industry, with Malaysia taking a central role in shaping its future.” Such recognition further reinforces Malaysia’s leadership in promoting sustainable halal practices and fostering innovation in the sector.

The Future of the Halal Industry: Malaysia Leading the Way

Looking ahead, Malaysia’s role in the global halal industry is expected to grow even further. The Malaysian government is actively investing in research and development to drive innovation in halal products and services. Significant efforts are being made to enhance the halal supply chain, ensuring that halal-certified products maintain high-quality standards from production through distribution. These initiatives are critical for keeping Malaysia competitive in the fast-evolving global halal market.

Furthermore, educational programs and training sessions at events like MIHAS play a pivotal role in empowering industry stakeholders. Such initiatives not only enhance product quality and ensure adherence to halal standards but also foster ethical business practices that resonate with today’s conscious consumers. By focusing on sustainable practices and innovation, Malaysia is setting benchmarks that will influence the global halal industry for years to come.

Malaysia’s Ever-growing Influence on the Halal Economy

Malaysia continues to solidify its position as a global leader in the halal economy, with MIHAS serving as a powerful testament to this influence. The event showcases the diversity, innovation, and collaboration inherent within the halal industry, while simultaneously highlighting the global demand for halal-certified products and services. As the industry evolves, Malaysia’s contributions—through leadership, certification standards, and international partnerships—are poised to shape the future of halal trade. With continued focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, Malaysia is well on its way to becoming the premier hub for halal trade in the 21st century and beyond.