Tech, collabs unlock halal sector potential
Published on: Tue, Aug 19, 2025 Text Size: Kota Kinabalu: Sabah's agricultural and halal sectors has notable potential for local enterprises to accelerate export growth, particularly in halal-certified products, through strategic adoption of advanced technologies and collaborative partnerships targeting regional and Muslim-majority markets. This promising outlook was noted by Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah Deputy President Kapitan Dr Callee Tan following the chamber's recent delegation to the 2025 Taipei International Food Show from June 25 - 28.
Advertisement During the visit, Tan observed that Taiwan's sophisticated food industry approach characterised by strong brand integration, technical innovation and professional exhibition standards offers valuable lessons for Sabah's small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to strengthen their market reach and export capabilities. 'International exhibitions like the Taipei Food Show function as more than knowledge-sharing platforms. 'They serve as catalysts for integrating Sabah into global supply chains while building confidence among our local business community,' she said. The delegation, operating under President Datuk Dexter Lau's leadership, included Committee Member Benny Hon, Women Entrepreneurs Committee (WEC) representatives Lanice Ng and Winnie Liu, members William Chang, Molly Moo Li and Kenneth Liau. Also present were former Vice President Michael Pan and Former WEC Deputy Chairperson Mary Pang. At the exhibition, the largest in its history with 1,700 companies and 4,500 booths from 33 countries, the Sabah representatives engaged extensively with international exhibitors, focusing on food processing technology, halal product developments, smart packaging innovations and cross-border e-commerce solutions. The visit reinforces Sabah MCCC's commitment to supporting member enterprises in expanding their regional and global presence. The initiative reflects a step toward strengthening Malaysia-Taiwan bilateral cooperation in food and halal industries, positioning Sabah as a competitive, export-focused food production centre. The delegations' engagement with exhibitors from major markets including Japan, Australia, South Korea and Singapore, as well as with the prominent USA Pavilion featuring over 80 companies specialising in cold chain logistics and health nutrition products, provided crucial insights into global industry trends and opportunities for Sabah's food sector development. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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