Kuala Lumpur:The 22nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2026) commenced in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together global companies, buyers, and industry representatives under the theme 'Shaping Trust, Driving Resilience.'

According to Anadolu Agency, the four-day event is hosted by Malaysia's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry and organized by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). It is being held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Center and is expected to attract around 50,000 visitors from 45 countries, with 1,700 companies participating across approximately 2,000 booths.

The organizers are targeting a total of 5 billion Malaysian ringgit ($1.23 billion) in sales through the exhibition and its business-matching program. The event covers 14 sectors of the halal economy, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, modest fashion, halal logistics, and more.

MATRADE Chairman Reezal Merican Naina Merican highlighted the expanding scope of the global halal industry, noting that it now encompasses entire supply chains. Halal standards include ingredients, packaging, logistics, and preventing cross-contamination, with adoption seen even in countries without large Muslim populations, such as New Zealand.

Reezal also emphasized Trkiye's "enormous opportunity" in the global halal industry due to its geopolitical position, international influence, and technological advancements. He noted Trkiye's role in the Palestine conflict and its capacity to be a leading player in the halal sector.

MIHAS 2026 introduces an AI-powered system to aid participants in business discovery and networking. The International Sourcing Programme aims to facilitate 4,000 meetings between international buyers and Malaysian exporters. Other features include the Knowledge Hub, Women in Export pavilion, MIHAS Awards, modest-fashion runway presentations, and live culinary demonstrations.