KUCHING – The Borneo International Halal Showcase (BIHAS) 2026 witnessed a significant boost to the state’s economic prospects with the signing of seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
These agreements, valued at approximately RM36.8 million over a three-year period, focus on foreign trade expansion and participation in international trade fairs.
The signings took place during the second day of the showcase, underscoring the event’s role as a pivotal platform for commercial engagement.
Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, representing the state leadership, highlighted that these partnerships are designed to fortify strategic alliances within the halal industry. The goal is to strengthen Sarawak’s position both regionally and on the global stage.
He noted that collaboration in halal exports, capacity building, and strategic cooperation serves as a catalyst for broader economic ties.
These efforts aim to open doors between Sarawak, Singapore, Kalimantan, Europe, and other international markets, thereby fostering a robust regional halal ecosystem.
The ceremony was attended by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, who officiated at the event.
His presence signalled the high priority the state government places on developing the halal sector as a key driver of growth.
One of the prominent agreements involved the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) and Mustafa’s Pte. Ltd.
This partnership will establish the Sarawak Pavilion at Mustafa Centre in Singapore as a dedicated marketplace for new products under the Sarawak Export Program.
The initiative aims to develop the halal trade chain and enhance business-to-business (B2B) opportunities for local enterprises.
Similarly, MINTRED signed another agreement with HalOk Pte. Ltd. and the Haltex Group. This collaboration seeks to improve access for Sarawakian products in international markets through the global halal trade network.
By leveraging established distribution channels, local businesses can reach a wider consumer base beyond domestic borders.
In the consumer goods sector, PPES Ternak Sdn. Bhd. and Bumi Teraju Resources Sdn. Bhd. entered into an agreement to expand the reach of Sara-Bif products.
The MoU focuses on distributing these items to Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia, supporting the growth of the Borneo halal ecosystem and ensuring wider availability of local produce.
Educational institutions also played a crucial role in the proceedings. Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak signed an MoU with the American Lycetuff School System (ALS) from Pakistan.
This partnership is expected to promote the development of industrial traders, increase halal innovation among students, and support professional development for academics and researchers.
Additionally, UiTM Sarawak collaborated with Minhaj University Lahore and the Center for Halal Awareness, Research and Training (CHART).
This tripartite agreement focuses on student exchange, joint research projects, and professional training. Such academic links are vital for nurturing talent and driving innovation within the halal industry.
The Sarawak Bumiputera Chamber of Commerce (DUBS) further expanded its regional footprint by signing two separate MoUs.
One agreement was with the West Kalimantan Provincial Chamber of Commerce (KADIN Kalbar) inIndonesia andd the other with the Sabah Bumiputera Chamber of Commerce (DPBS).
These partnerships aim to enhance trade cooperation chains and explore new commercial opportunities between the neighbouring regions.
Collectively, these agreements represent a concerted effort to integrate Sarawak into the global halal economy.
By combining government support, private sector initiative, and academic expertise, the state is positioning itself as a central hub for halal trade and innovation.
The financial commitment of RM36.8 million reflects the tangible confidence partners have in Sarawak’s potential.
As the showcase continues, these collaborations are expected to yield immediate benefits for local exporters and long-term structural improvements to the industry.
The focus on cross-border trade and educational exchange ensures that Sarawak remains competitive in an increasingly interconnected global market.
