Qatar and Malaysia Collaborate to Boost Entrepreneurial and Manufacturing Sectors

The exchange of knowledge and best practices between companies in Qatar and Malaysia is set to play a crucial role in the development and growth of both nations’ entrepreneurial and manufacturing sectors. This sentiment was expressed by Dr. Sana al-Dawaimeh, owner of Doha-based cosmetics company Magic Touch, during the International Sourcing Programme (INSP) held at the headquarters of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).

The INSP is a prominent business matching event, held annually alongside the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2024, which recently concluded. Speaking to Gulf Times, Dr. al-Dawaimeh highlighted the potential of collaborations between Qatari and Malaysian businesses, particularly in the halal cosmetics sector.

Magic Touch, which started as a small factory producing organic oils and natural beauty products, is now looking to expand its reach. Dr. al-Dawaimeh expressed her admiration for Malaysian halal products, calling them “perfect” for the Qatari market. She represented one of four Qatari companies at INSP MIHAS 2024 and emphasized the opportunity for her company to explore the Malaysian halal cosmetics market further.

“By combining Qatari and Malaysian expertise, we can enhance our operations in Qatar and eventually produce halal cosmetics with the ‘Made in Qatar’ label,” Dr. al-Dawaimeh stated. She believes this collaboration will aid in expanding domestic production while boosting Qatar’s presence in the halal cosmetics industry.

MATRADE CEO, Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, highlighted the success of INSP MIHAS 2024, which attracted 250 international buyers, including 20 premium buyers from 40 countries. These buyers represent large hypermarkets and retailers from regions such as Europe, South Asia, the US, India, the UK, Taiwan, and others. According to Aziz, these buyers generated over $60 billion in revenue in 2023, and their participation is expected to generate a potential sourcing value of more than RM1 billion.

Aziz also noted that the event hosted 2,500 business-matching sessions, fostering new partnerships and expanding market access for Malaysian businesses. “INSP MIHAS 2024 plays a strategic role in strengthening international trade relations and positioning Malaysia as a key player in the global halal ecosystem,” he said.

These business deals are expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, creating job opportunities and supporting exporters.