| By NST

The International Halal Economic Conference (IHEC) 2026 is projected to generate trade opportunities exceeding RM500 million, reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a leading hub in the global halal economy.

Scheduled to take place from February 3 to 5, 2026, at Tenera Hotel & Suites in Bangi, the conference is designed as a high-level platform for policy dialogue, strategic networking and international collaboration across the halal ecosystem.

IHEC 2026 will convene policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, investors, academics and innovators from ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Europe and other emerging halal markets.

World Islamic Economic Development (WIED) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Abdul Rani Osman said each participating industry sector, including food and pharmaceuticals, is expected to generate average business transactions of approximately RM3 million during the conference.

“The overall trade value target exceeds RM500 million. This figure includes not only deals concluded during the event, but also business pipelines that will continue to develop after the conference,” he said at a press conference. 

Abdul Rani noted that the defining feature of this year’s conference is its strong emphasis on measurable outcomes, including trade facilitation, business matching, investment flows and the alignment of international standards.

“IHEC 2026 is not merely an academic forum. It incorporates contemporary technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, ensuring the conference remains aligned with global developments,” he said.

Strengthening Malaysia’s Position as a Global Halal Hub

IHEC chairman Tan Sri Dr Yusof Md Noor said the conference further consolidates Malaysia’s standing as a global halal hub, supported by strong certification systems, robust regulatory frameworks, effective institutional governance and extensive international cooperation.

He described IHEC 2026 as a leading global platform aimed at shaping the future of the halal economy through policy engagement, industry collaboration and international market integration.

“The halal economy today goes beyond commercial activity. It reflects ethical values, integrity, sustainability and innovation—key elements for building global trust and long-term growth,” he said.

According to Yusof, Malaysia is well positioned to lead international discourse and strategic cooperation in the halal economy. The organization of IHEC reflects a coordinated effort to align policies, enhance global collaboration and drive sustainable growth in response to expanding global market opportunities.

Awards and Expanded Sectoral Focus

A Gala Night and International Recognition Ceremony on February 5 will feature the International Halal Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of the global halal industry.

“This recognition symbolizes excellence and leadership within the global halal community,” Yusof said, adding that IHEC 2026 is expected to serve as a catalyst for strategic partnerships, knowledge exchange and the development of a more resilient and future-ready halal economy.

The conference will address the continued expansion of the halal economy beyond food, covering sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, Islamic finance, digital technologies, tourism, sustainability and ESG-driven value creation.

IHEC 2026 positions halal as a comprehensive ethical and economic framework rather than a purely compliance-based system, promoting transparency, inclusivity and sustainable global growth.

Key priorities include strengthening cross-border cooperation, regulatory harmonization, global market access, financing mechanisms and technology-enabled halal solutions.

The program will feature plenary sessions, executive panels, policy dialogues, business-matching forums and strategic networking activities aimed at delivering tangible economic and policy outcomes.

The conference will also serve as a policy platform for governments and institutions to exchange perspectives on incentives, trade facilitation and governance models supporting sustainable halal economic development.

To date, 18 countries have confirmed participation, with more than 500 local and international delegates expected. IHEC 2026 will also be broadcast virtually to audiences in over 30 countries.

Source:

International Halal Economic Conference 2026 to generate RM500mil in trade opportunities. (2026). New Straits Times. https://www.nst.com.my/amp/news/nation/2026/01/1352240/international-halal-economic-conference-2026-generate-rm500mil-trade