Sabah chocolatiers shine at MICF 2025, eye global markets
Noorziah (left) with her staff showcases the bird's eye chili-flavoured chocolate prepared for MICF 2025.
KOTA KINABALU (May 25): The Malaysia International Cocoa Festival (MICF) 2025 is providing more than just a stage for showcasing locally produced chocolates; it is also opening doors for cocoa industry players to expand their marketing reach.
For Noorziah Laugan Terki, founder of the Famles handmade chocolate brand, events like MICF are invaluable, especially for Sabah's homegrown cocoa and chocolate entrepreneurs.
Noorziah, who has been involved in chocolate exhibitions since 2005, now offers nine different chocolate flavours. Among her best-selling creations are those infused with bird's eye chili, durian, tiramisu, almond and mint.
'In addition to participating in local events, I've also joined international cocoa festivals in China, the Philippines and Brunei,' she said when met at the MICF.
'I even had a three-year collaboration with a chocolatier in Guangzhou, China, where I had the opportunity to produce my own line of chocolates.'
She believes that events like MICF are key to promoting her brand while tapping into broader markets through the exposure brought by large crowds.
Revyra Chocolate and Confectionery Sdn Bhd director Mohamad Hanafia Mohamad Yunus echoed similar sentiments.
He said their latest creation, the 'Dubai-Style Chocolate', has quickly become a hot favourite since its launch in March this year.
'We've consistently supported programmes organised by the Malaysian Cocoa Board (LKM) and have taken part in many such events,' he said.
'These initiatives not only help boost our brand visibility but also elevate the profile of local chocolate products overall.
'This is our second time participating in an event in Sabah. While the market here is different from Peninsular Malaysia, there are still many opportunities to explore,' he added.
Hanafia also noted that MICF 2025 offers a valuable opportunity for his company to connect with potential distributors interested in bringing their products into the Sabah market.
MICF 2025 is taking place over four days at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), featuring a wide range of engaging activities and exciting prizes for visitors, including a car giveaway.
This marks the first time the festival is being held in Sabah, with approximately 150 booths showcasing and selling a diverse selection of chocolate-based products.
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