KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) marked another significant milestone with the 11th edition of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the global halal industry. These awards set the benchmark for excellence, reflecting the growing importance of sustainability and innovation in today’s dynamic halal market.
This year, the MIHAS Awards introduced a new category focusing on sustainability, highlighting MATRADE’s dedication to supporting environmentally responsible and socially conscientious company practices. The Sustainability Award recognizes industry players who have successfully integrated sustainable practices into their operations, underscoring MATRADE’s commitment to addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development, particularly within the Halal sector.
The MIHAS Awards honor industry leaders excelling in sustainability and innovation across various sectors. Winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges, including experts from multiple industries and academia. The rigorous evaluation process assessed candidates based on their commitment to sustainability, market impact, and strict adherence to halal standards—criteria that ensure the awards highlight trailblazers within the industry.
The 11th MIHAS Awards saw a notable increase in participation, showcasing the expanding and diversifying halal economy. The awards attracted a wide range of entries, with strong representation from the lifestyle halal and services sectors.
MATRADE’s Chairman, Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, remarked, “The impressive representation from halal lifestyle products and services sectors in this year’s awards clearly indicates the dynamism and innovation driving the Halal industry. Sectors such as cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology are embracing halal principles and setting new benchmarks in the global market.”
Fourteen awards were presented in three different categories: Product and Services Excellence Award, Products and Services Innovative Award, and Sustainability Award.
Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn Bhd won the Product Excellence Award for its halal pet food, PowerCat, while HYT Cross Border Sdn Bhd received the Services Excellence Award for its e-commerce solutions.
Callabio Manufacturing Sdn Bhd was recognized for its halal-certified syrups under the Baristar brand, launched in 2023, offering uniquely flavored syrups that enhance drinks, foods, and desserts with a Malaysian touch.
The Products Innovative Award went to World Prominence Sdn Bhd for its Sudee brand dry pastes, while the Services Innovative Award was given to AFM Fulfillment (M) Sdn Bhd for its advanced one-stop e-commerce fulfillment solutions.
B-Crobes Marketing Sdn Bhd earned the Sustainability Award for its research-driven innovation and sustainable practices, focused on improving gut health and managing non-communicable diseases.
MATRADE’s strategic focus on sustainability and sectoral diversity aligns with the National Halal Industry Master Plan, which seeks to position Malaysia as a global leader in innovation. The diverse halal clusters at MIHAS highlight the versatility and global appeal of Malaysia’s halal industry, enhancing the nation’s standing as a pivotal hub in the international halal ecosystem.
“We are immensely proud of the diversity and quality of entries in this year’s MIHAS Awards,” said Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican. “The broad range of products and services, combined with strong commitment to sustainability practices, will drive the growth of the global halal market, solidifying Malaysia’s role as a leader in the global halal industry.”
