Imagine stepping into a space where award-winning food innovations sit alongside live culinary challenges, chocolate artisans showcase their craft, baristas compete for regional glory and industry leaders discuss the future of halal trade—all under one roof.
That's exactly what awaits visitors at Food & Drinks Malaysia by SIAL (FDM2026), which returns to the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from July 21 to 23 with its biggest and most dynamic edition yet.
Running alongside FDM2026, Chocolate Show 2026 will bring together chocolatiers, artisan brands and cocoa innovators through live demonstrations, tastings and interactive showcases, adding another layer of excitement to the region's premier food and beverage trade event.
Positioning Malaysia as ASEAN's food and beverage hub
Speaking during an interview ahead of FDM2026, Henri Tan, Exhibition Director of Comexposium Sdn Bhd, shared his insights on how the food and beverage industry has evolved in recent years, noting that, "Since the pandemic, food security and sustainability have become central to the global conversation. Consumers today are more health-conscious than ever, seeking greater transparency about where their food comes from and how it is produced. These changing expectations, coupled with growing demand for sustainable and resilient food systems, are reshaping the industry.”
Beyond facilitating trade, Henri said FDM2026 is also committed to fostering innovation through collaboration. "We're working closely with universities, research institutions and industry partners to showcase food innovation and explore ways to improve food quality. We are collaborating with organisations such as the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board to demonstrate how every part of a pineapple can be utilised, helping reduce food waste while creating new value-added products. More importantly, we're bringing together the entire ecosystem from students and researchers to industry players and farmers to encourage innovation in how we grow, prepare and consume food."
Tan Mei Phing, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), shared that FDM2026 is more than an industry exhibition; it is a catalyst for business tourism that supports Malaysia's economic growth and the broader ambitions of Visit Malaysia 2026.
Building on this national vision, the event also places a strong emphasis on recognising industry talent through world-class culinary and coffee competitions.
Celebrating talent, creativity and industry excellence
Internationally respected culinary figure, Masterchef KK Yau, Chief Judge of the 5th Global Culinary Challenge Malaysia and Worldchefs Vice Continental Director for Asia, said that one of the highlights of the event is the introduction of the SIAL Culinary Master Asia (SCMA), which will make its exclusive debut at the Global Culinary Challenge Malaysia (GCCM). The competition is aimed at nurturing culinary students and young professionals through practical challenges that showcase creativity, innovation and technical skills.
Showcasing culinary and coffee excellence
Meanwhile, Karmen Yoong, Deputy Director (Industry Development) of the ASEAN Coffee Federation, highlighted the return of the ASEAN Barista Team Championship (ABTC) 2026, which will celebrate the region's finest coffee talent while showcasing teamwork, creativity and innovation that continue to shape Southeast Asia's thriving specialty coffee industry.
"The ASEAN Barista Team Championship is a unique, high-energy team competition that recreates the fast-paced environment of a world-class espresso bar. This year, 18 teams from Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam will compete, highlighting the incredible talent and passion driving Asia's specialty coffee scene."
FDM 2026’s collaboration with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 was further brought to life through a special appearance by official mascots Wira and Manja, underscoring the synergy between tourism, culture, food and business events in promoting Malaysia on the global stage.
Guests were invited to discover COWA's experiential showcase, the key presenter for the ASEAN Barista Team Championship 2026. The showcase reflected FDM 2026’s “Taste” pillar through innovative café concepts and modern interpretations of coconut-based creations, including Matcha Coconut, Coffee Coconut Latte, and Coconut Gelato.
Returning with the theme "Savour Southeast Asia: The Epicentre of Taste, Trade & Talent," FDM 2026 is expected to attract 500 exhibitors and 18,000 trade visitors, further strengthening Malaysia's position as the gateway to the ASEAN food and beverage market.
Discover the ideas, flavours and partnerships shaping tomorrow's food industry. Secure your trade visitor pass now at www.fooddrinksmalaysia.com.
