KUALA LUMPUR: Women entrepreneurs will be encouraged to take a bigger step into international markets through the Women in Export (WiEX) initiative, which will be featured at the 22nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026.

Diana D Talit, Deputy Director at the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), said WiEX @MIHAS 2026 is designed to help women-led businesses move beyond the domestic market and tap into the growing opportunities offered by the global halal economy.

She said this during her talk session at MRCA Connect Circle 1.0, held on Wednesday at Sunway University, where she highlighted the opportunities available for women entrepreneurs through WiEX and encouraged more women-led businesses to participate.

The initiative will be held in conjunction with MIHAS 2026 from Sept 23 to 26 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), bringing together women entrepreneurs, industry players and international buyers.

With the theme “Advancing Women in the Halal Economy,” WiEX 2026 will feature four key components — the WiEX Pavilion, International Sourcing Programme (INSP), WiEX Forum @MIHAS and Anugerah Wira Ekonomi Wanita.

Diana said the platform would provide women entrepreneurs with greater exposure to international markets while giving them opportunities to learn from businesses that have successfully navigated the challenges of scaling and competing globally.

The WiEX Forum will be one of the key highlights, featuring four women business leaders who will share their experiences, strategies and practical insights on building and growing businesses.

The panel comprises YM Tengku Norhanim Tengku Othman, CEO and founder of NIMS Adeliousz Sdn Bhd, which produces chocolate-flavoured popcorn; Jasmine Tan, co-founder of Applecrmbly Sdn Bhd, an organic baby products company; Amnah Shari, CEO of Serunai Commerce Sdn Bhd; and Amy Blair, founder of Batik Boutique.

The forum is expected to attract about 300 participants and will provide women entrepreneurs with an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into how established founders adapt their businesses, compete in changing markets and pursue growth beyond Malaysia.

The WiEX Pavilion will further strengthen the platform’s business dimension, with 80 booths allocated to women-led businesses — 60 for Malaysian companies and the remainder for international exhibitors.

For women entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses, the initiative offers more than exhibition space. It provides a platform to connect with potential buyers, explore export opportunities, exchange knowledge and build networks with other women in the halal economy.

Participation in the WiEX Forum is free, although seats are limited.

Diana urged women entrepreneurs to take advantage of the platform and use WiEX as a stepping stone towards greater market access and international growth.

For women business owners ready to move beyond the local market, WiEX 2026 presents an opportunity to learn from experienced founders, connect with potential business partners and explore new pathways into the global halal economy.