KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is hosting the Borneo International Halal Exhibition (Bohex) from Feb 5 to 9.
Aiming to raise awareness of halal products beyond food, showcasing sectors such as fashion, medical products and tourism, this event will be held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in the city.
Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said this exhibition is a meaningful initiative to strengthen Sabah’s reputation as a MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) and Muslim-friendly destination.
During a courtesy call by Bohex organisers on Thursday (Jan 9), he added that Sabah needs more such events to boost its portfolio, especially among international participants.
The organising team included Bohex business development and government relations director Maiyizat-ul-Najwa Ab Mutalib, corporate communications director Nurul Hidayah Umol and project manager Safia Amira Mohd Jamil.
Bangkuai said international events like Bohex were meaningful, especially for STB, as they allow the board to showcase Sabah’s beautiful destination to foreign participants, whether they are first-time or returning visitors.
“It complements Malaysia’s efforts to welcome more visitors under Visit Malaysia 2026 while positioning Sabah as an increasingly attractive destination for Muslim tourists,” he said.
The State Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister also suggested that the organiser engages with the Sabah Convention Bureau to strengthen the event’s impact.
Bohex is organised by Eminent Source Sdn Bhd, which has specialised in training and coaching industries related to Halal and Food Safety and Quality Certification since 2022.
Supported by the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (Jakim), Bohex aims to attract 10,000 visitors throughout the five-day exhibition and bring in exhibitors from Brunei, South Korea, Indonesia, Pakistan and India, among others.
