A MAJOR expo in Kuala Lumpur is set to reinforce Malaysia’s growing influence as a regional hub for food, beverage, hospitality, and culinary innovation.
Food & Drinks Malaysia (FDM) 2026 themed “Savour South-East Asia: The Epicentre of Taste, Trade & Talent” will run from July 21 to 23 at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec).
It will run concurrently with Chocolate Show 2026, bringing global brands, regional industry players, culinary professionals and innovators under one roof.
Comexposium Sdn Bhd exhibition director Henri Tan said FDM2026 aimed to reflect the increasing importance of Malaysia’s F&B industry within the regional trade landscape.
“FDM continues to evolve beyond a trade exhibition; it is a strategic business platform that connects ideas, innovation, talent and commerce.
“Through FDM2026, we aim to create stronger regional partnerships, unlock new market opportunities and position Malaysia as a preferred destination for the global F&B industry.
“As South-East Asia’s leading F&B marketplace, FDM champions entrepreneurship by providing a platform where innovators, startups and foodpreneurs can transform ideas into commercial opportunities and regional success stories.”
Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) chief executive officer Tan Mei Phing highlighted the important role a business event such as FDM2026 played in contributing to Malaysia’s tourism economy and the broader ambitions of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
Internationally respected culinary figure, 5th Global Culinary Challenge Malaysia chief judge and Worldchefs vice-continental director for Asia KK Yau highlighted the platform’s role in nurturing culinary excellence, inspiring emerging chefs and strengthening Malaysia’s reputation within the international culinary community.
Asean Coffee Federation deputy director (industry development) Karmen Yoong shared insights into Asean Barista Team Championship 2026, which will spotlight regional coffee talent, creativity and innovation while strengthening collaboration within South-East Asia’s growing cafe and speciality coffee scene.
A special appearance by VM2026 official mascots Wira and Manja underscored the synergy between tourism, culture, food and business events in promoting Malaysia on the global stage.
Guests were also treated to an experiential showcase by Cowa, key presenter of the Asean Barista Team Championship 2026.
It reflected FDM2026’s “taste” pillar through innovative cafe concepts and modern interpretations of coconut-based creations, including Matcha Coconut, Coffee Coconut Latte and Coconut Gelato.
FDM 2026 is expected to welcome 500 exhibitors and 18,000 attendees.
It is open from 10am to 6pm on July 21 and 22, and 10am to 5pm on July 23.
Entry is free to visitors via registration at fooddrinksmalaysia.com
