Malaysia Boosts Global Halal Trade with MIHAS Knowledge Hub 2025

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — As the global Halal market surges toward a projected value of $2.8 trillion by 2030, Malaysia is positioning itself as the linchpin of this dynamic sector through the MIHAS Knowledge Hub 2025. Orchestrated by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), this initiative transforms the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) from a once-a-year trade fair into a sophisticated, year-round ecosystem designed to empower exporters and redefine global Halal trade.

A Strategic Knowledge Powerhouse

Launched on August 25, 2025, the MIHAS Knowledge Hub is a bold step toward consolidating Malaysia’s role as a global Halal hub. The platform offers 23 meticulously curated sessions featuring 76 industry leaders from 16 countries, including Indonesia, China, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates. Two specialized webinars on supply chain traceability and e-commerce underscore the Hub’s focus on addressing the sector’s most pressing challenges. Through the MIHAS Portal and MADANI Digital Trade (MDT) platforms, exporters gain access to advanced digital tools, real-time market intelligence, and direct connections to premium buyers.

Supported by partners such as the Halal Development Corporation (HDC), MBSB Bank, FedEx, and Nazsoft Tech, the Hub has already engaged over 1,000 participants. Sessions covering digitalization, cross-border e-commerce, logistics, and trade financing are available both live and on-demand, ensuring accessibility for a global audience. This infrastructure reflects Malaysia’s strategic foresight in leveraging digital innovation to bridge gaps in the Halal supply chain.

Global Expertise, Local Impact

The Hub’s “Meet the Experts” series, comprising 16 webinars running through December 2025, brings together thought leaders from diverse markets to share insights on regulatory compliance, market entry strategies, and digital transformation. These sessions, accessible live or recorded, cater to the nuanced needs of Halal-certified producers navigating complex international markets.

“The MIHAS Knowledge Hub is a game-changer, translating granular market insights into actionable strategies,” said YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, MATRADE’s Chairman. “With nearly 10,000 Halal-certified producers connected to global buyer networks, we’re on track to surpass last year’s RM61.7 billion in SME exports, aiming for RM63.1 billion in 2025.”

YBhg. Dato’ Sri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, MATRADE’s CEO, added, “In a global market where brand resilience and digital agility define success, MIHAS is not just about networking—it’s about equipping businesses with the tools to secure lasting market share.”

A standout feature of the Knowledge Hub is its integration with MATRADE’s International Sourcing Programme (INSP), held on September 17, 2025, alongside MIHAS. By aligning real-time market intelligence with regulatory updates and digital readiness, the Hub empowers exporters to seize international opportunities with precision. This synergy positions Malaysia as a facilitator of high-value trade deals, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to penetrate new markets.

The recent Power Talk session, themed “Building Resilient Business Growth through Branding and Digital Platforms,” drew a robust audience of industry stakeholders. Speakers, including Sinan Ismail of Durioo+, Sid Murshid of Grey Café, and Venon Tian of Zus Coffee, emphasized the pivotal role of data-driven branding and digital platforms in navigating supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer preferences. Their insights highlighted a critical truth: for Halal exporters, embracing digital transformation is no longer optional but essential for sustainable growth.

Malaysia’s Halal industry, already a global benchmark, is poised for exponential growth. The MIHAS Knowledge Hub 2025 is more than a platform—it’s a strategic blueprint for scaling Malaysia’s influence in a sector increasingly shaped by innovation and interconnectivity. By fostering year-round engagement and delivering measurable outcomes, the Hub positions Malaysia not just as a participant but as a pacesetter in the global Halal economy.

For industry stakeholders, the message is clear: Malaysia’s vision for Halal trade is not merely about meeting demand but about shaping the future of a trillion-dollar market. As the Knowledge Hub continues to unfold, its impact will likely resonate far beyond Kuala Lumpur, setting a new standard for global trade ecosystems.

Dr. Aisha Rahman is a senior analyst specializing in the global Halal industry, with over 15 years of experience advising policymakers and businesses on trade and market strategies.