SHAH ALAM, Sept 16 - The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will launch the Women in Export (WiEX) platform at the 22nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) to strengthen women entrepreneurs’ participation in international trade, particularly in the global halal sector.
MATRADE chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said greater participation by women entrepreneurs was important to fully realise the potential of the halal economy.
“WiEX @MIHAS places women entrepreneurs at the forefront of driving innovation, quality and adaptability in the halal economy.
“Every woman who thrives through this platform brings us closer to our target of RM80 billion in halal exports by 2030. This is not only good policy, but also a positive step for economic growth,” he said in a statement.
The platform will take place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, from September 23 to 26.
The event is in line with Matrade’s commitment to empowering women-owned and women-led companies to enter overseas markets and tap export opportunities in the halal economy.
WiEX @MIHAS 2026 programme which carries the theme, Advancing Women in the Halal Economy, comprises four main components; the WiEX Pavilion, International Sourcing Programme (INSP), WiEX Forum @MIHAS and Women Economic Warrior Awards.
The WiEX Pavilion will feature 80 exhibition spaces showcasing women-owned and women-led businesses from Malaysia and abroad, including 60 spaces for Malaysian companies.
Through the INSP, Matrade will bring together 300 international buyers from various countries with Malaysian companies, with more than 120 business matching sessions targeted for WiEX Pavilion participants.
The WiEX Forum @MIHAS will serve as a platform for knowledge-sharing on global trade challenges, digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI), exploring new markets, and building resilient and sustainable businesses.
Meanwhile, the Women Economic Warrior Awards will recognise women entrepreneurs’ achievements in three categories such as Product Excellence, Service Excellence, and Innovation and Sustainability Excellence.
Matrade chief executive officer Abu Bakar Yusof said the platform provides a comprehensive ecosystem bringing together business opportunities, strategic partnerships, capacity building and recognition.
“Women entrepreneurs are increasingly playing an important role in driving innovation, creating employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth across various sectors.
“This approach can equip women-led businesses with the networks, knowledge and market access needed to strengthen their export capabilities and compete globally,” he added.
