MIHAS Awards 2025 Honour 14 Halal Businesses Across Categories

By K. Naveen Prabu

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- The 12th edition of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) Awards recently honoured 14 halal businesses for achievements in products, services, sustainability, digitalisation and innovation.

Organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the Awards also introduced the Emerging Star category, recognising newcomers with strong export potential and transformative impact in the halal industry.

MATRADE chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the MIHAS Awards underscore Malaysia’s commitment to positioning the Halal Malaysia brand on the global stage. 

"The Awards celebrate visionary enterprises that have set new standards of excellence in halal trade. 

"By recognising both industry leaders and emerging innovators, the Awards advance the national agenda of innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth under the 13th Malaysia Plan, while further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a trusted global benchmark for halal integrity, quality and excellence," he said.

Among the winners were Mamee Double Decker (M) Sdn Bhd, Zhafou Global Sdn Bhd and Aafiyat Marketing Sdn Bhd (Products Excellence Award); STG Shipping (M) Sdn Bhd and Serunai Commerce Sdn Bhd (Services Excellence Award).

The Emerging Star Award went to Industri Makanan Jati Sdn Bhd (Product category), Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn Bhd (Service) and GFB Food Sdn Bhd (Overall contribution).

In the Innovation and Sustainability categories, ADA Biotech Sdn Bhd, Culvita, Poweroot Manufacturing Sdn Bhd and Wonderliv Sdn Bhd (Food Art) were recognised for Products, while Pos Malaysia Bhd and Nestlé Products Sdn Bhd were awarded for the Services Award.

Speaking to Bernama, Aafiyat Marketing chief of sales Muhamad Hafiz Muridan said the recognition was especially meaningful given the demanding nature of halal compliance.

“Halal is not just about food — it is a standard and a process that requires strict audits. Securing certification is not easy, so to be recognised at the international level through MIHAS fits with our expansion strategy into other countries,” he said.

Muhamad Hafiz said the pandemic period was especially challenging.

"It was very tough, but when you set high standards and have a clear vision, you can overcome those challenges,” he said.

For Adabi Consumer Industries, product manager Mohd Azwar Aizam Anuar said the company was strengthening its position in new segments after 41 years in the food industry.

“We plan to launch our frozen food segment by the end of this year, and we have also moved into retail, opening a second outlet this year after the first one last year. 

“Everything we do is based on research and market demand, supported by a strong research and development team and quality control department,” he said. 

Another recipient, Wonderliv Sdn Bhd, founded in 2020, won the Products Innovation and Sustainability Award.

“Our product is instant, convenient, healthy and safe for long-term use. We want to contribute to building a healthier generation for the country’s future,” said research development executive Nur Atikah Mat Rapi.

The company's business development manager, Wendy Pang, added that Wonderliv now serves more than 50,000 customers.

“Traditionally, soup takes time to cook, but we created a sachet-based product — just add boiling water for a fresh hot soup. It blends heritage with modern lifestyles,” she said.

The MIHAS Awards enhance winners’ visibility and credibility on the global stage, strengthen brand reputation, affirm commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability, and expand access to strategic trade networks.

--BERNAMA