Recognising the best in halal industry

THE Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) Awards marked its seventh anniversary this year in style.

MIHAS 2018, which took place at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec), recognised the achievements of local and foreign exhibitors for their innovation and creativity in booth designs and product innovation.

This year, exhibitors were awarded based on five categories.

Umrahloka Sdn Bhd took home gold under the Best Malaysian Booth Design and Presentation category, gold went to Takex Co.Ltd for Best International Booth Design and Presentation, Palestine for Best Country Pavilion Award and PS Food and Beverage Sdn Bhd (Tamar Milk) won gold under the Most Innovative Food and Beverage Product category.

MIHAS Award 2018 winners with their award certificates.

There was no gold winner for the Most Innovative Non-Food and Services category but silver went to Phytes Biotek Sdn Bhd (Physta Tongkat Ali Extract).

Winners were selected by a panel of judges from Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), the National Innovation Agency Malaysia, Department of Islamic Development Malaysia, Sirim Bhd, Universiti Malaya and Malaysia Design Council.

Matrade chief executive officer Dr Mohd Shahreen Zainoreen Madros said it was critical to acknowledge companies that innovate as such ideas and creativity would be a key catalyst to ensure Malaysian companies remained relevant in the halal economy.

“Today’s business is powered by innovation and creativity. We must embrace new technologies and innovation in order to be successful globally.

“While we stay focus on existing business, we also need to strive for excellence and innovate to stay ahead and to be different,” he said.

He added that there more categories would be introduced next year if the number of pavilions increases.