Sabah to hold international food expo next month

The second Sabah International Food Expo (Sifex 2024) will be held from March 8 to 10 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here.

Themed ‘Taste for Business’, the event is organised by ESM Exhibitor Relations Malaysia and supported by industry players and major brands nationwide.

ESM Exhibitor Relations Malaysia managing director Datuk Dayang Khatijah Bachtiyal says the expo provides a platform to meet with potential suppliers and business partners, as well as to connect with visitors and exhibitors nationwide.

“The event offers the opportunity to sample new products and learn about the latest industry trends. In addition, it is a great way for exhibitors to seek exposure for their products and secure new clients,” she said.

She added the event would also enable visitors and businesses to explore new partnerships and expand their network with professionals and industry players.

The expo will feature a total of 300 booths comprising food and beverage industry players from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Egypt, Turkey and Philippines, as well as pavilions from Johor, Sarawak, Kedah, Penang and Selangor.

Several state and federal agencies are also participating in the event, such as the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama), Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad (PUNB) and Sabah Ministry of Agriculture and Fishery. More than 50,000 visitors are expected to attend the threeday expo, to be taking place from 10am to 8pm. Admission is free.

Dayang Khatijah said the mission of most exhibitors from outside Sabah was to seek distribution partners, wholesalers or supermarkets to distribute their products in order to expand their market in Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and the Philippines.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu is expected to officiate at Sifex 2024 this March 9.