DUBAI: The Malaysian International Halal Showcase (Mihas) chose Dubai to mark its international debut due to its strategic location.
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said Dubai was the pathway to the prospective market of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
"MENA consists of 21 countries with a population of 500 million people and a combined Gross Domestic Product of over USD4 trillion.
"Dubai is at the centre of the region with strong connectivity. It is just one flight away from almost every major city in the world.
"Dubai, as we know, hosts many major international exhibitions throughout the year such as Gulfood, World Expo, Arab Health and many more.
"We are optimistic that Mihas@ Dubai will serve as a springboard for many more opportunities for Malaysian companies to expand their export horizon in the region and beyond," he said at the opening at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi launched Mihas@Dubai, setting a target of RM1 billion in export sales.
Among those present were Malaysian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Tengku Datuk Sirajuzzaman Tengku Mohamed Ariffin, and Matrade chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz.
The three-day Mihas@Dubai is held alongside the Middle East Organic and Natural Product Expo.
Reezal Merican said Mihas@Dubai was a commitment to expand and extend Malaysia's influence in the halal industry to a global scale and to elevate Mihas.
He said the RM1 billion target to be derived from the International Sourcing Programme (INSP), as announced by Zahid, underscored the confidence and the strong appeal of Malaysian halal products and services on the world stage.
Mihas@Dubai features 215 exhibitors from Malaysia and has captured the interest of 120 international buyers, including premium buyers from 20 countries.
He said they aimed to continue enhancing Malaysia's reputation as a global halal hub and to build bridges that foster mutual growth, sustainability and prosperity for the thriving industry.
"For over 20 years, Mihas has been a pillar in advancing Malaysia's halal industry domestically.
"Now, as we step onto the global stage, we are setting the foundation for even greater achievements and a more substantial presence for Mihas worldwide," he said.