MIFF and MATRADE Partner to Strengthen Malaysia’s Global Furniture Presence

KUALA LUMPUR, 29 January 2026 – The Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) has formalized a partnership with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) through an Exchange of Cooperation Document, appointing MATRADE as MIFF’s International Trade Partner. The collaboration aims to promote Malaysian-made furniture internationally and expand trade opportunities for local manufacturers.

The partnership aligns with the Malaysian government’s mission to stimulate trade and exports. Under the agreement, MATRADE will contribute market intelligence, targeted access, and trade support to address challenges such as rising costs, shifting trade policies, and evolving buyer expectations regarding sustainability, innovation, and supply chain resilience.

The document was signed by MATRADE CEO Abu Bakar Yusof and Informa Markets Malaysia General Manager Gerard Leeuwenburgh, with witnesses from key industry and government organizations including the Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB), Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), and Muar Furniture Association (MFA).

“This partnership reflects a shared vision to elevate Malaysia’s furniture industry on the global stage by bringing together MIFF’s globally recognised platform with MATRADE’s trade expertise in bridging local furniture players with premium international buyers,” said Mr. Abu Bakar during the signing ceremony at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur.

He added, “Our collaboration is both timely and strategic. MIFF is not merely a trade exhibition but a global industry benchmark. Consistently ranked among the world’s top furniture trade shows and the largest in Southeast Asia, MIFF’s impact is well proven, and together, we will translate Malaysian creativity, innovation and craftsmanship into measurable international trade success.”

MIFF General Manager Kelie Lim said, “Our partnership with MATRADE will see MIFF reach new heights of excellence in connecting global buyers and sellers. This win-win collaboration will also enhance opportunities for buyers and visitors, add weight to Malaysia’s status in the international furniture industry, and provide long-lasting exposure for top brands looking to expand beyond borders with proven and new design trends and technologies.”

“Informa Markets Malaysia is honoured to be working closely with MATRADE, whom we previously collaborated with on other initiatives including International Healthcare Week and who brings deep expertise, global networks, and a mandate to expand Malaysia’s trade footprint,” said Mr. Gerard Leeuwenburgh. “They also increase the mileage of our events, enabling us to align with national priorities, respond to industry needs, and create long-term value.”

Since its debut in 1995, MIFF has evolved into Southeast Asia’s largest export-oriented furniture trade show and a key platform for sourcing innovative, high-quality, and competitively priced furniture. MIFF 2026 will take place from 4–7 March 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) and the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL). The event will span 100,000 square metres under the concept “1 Fair, 2 Venues, 17 Halls,” hosting more than 700 exhibitors and 20,000 buyers from 140 countries and regions.

Steve Ong, President of the Muar Furniture Association, welcomed the collaboration, saying, “I am happy to see this partnership happening as it will significantly benefit industry players in expanding their export markets. I look forward to working closely with MATRADE and MIFF to ensure that Malaysian furniture continues to thrive and shine on the global stage.”

As MIFF’s Strategic Partner since 2013, MFA represents manufacturers that account for roughly 80% of Malaysia’s furniture exports. The new partnership with MATRADE is expected to enhance market access, strengthen industry competitiveness, and expand global reach for Malaysian furniture makers.

MIFF’s partnerships also include national endorsements from the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, and the Malaysian Timber Council. The 2026 event will also be supported by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Tourism Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.

Trade visitors who register before 13 February 2026 will receive free admission and access to MIFF’s buyer privilege programmes. Registration is available at www.miff.com.my/register.

About MATRADE

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is the national trade promotion agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). Established in 1993, MATRADE assists Malaysian exporters in developing and expanding their export markets. As part of Malaysia’s commercial diplomacy efforts, MATRADE serves as the country’s trade facilitator and champion of Malaysian-made products and services on the global stage. For more information, visit www.matrade.gov.my.

About MIFF

The Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) is Southeast Asia’s largest export-oriented furniture trade show, featuring Made-in-Malaysia wooden, home, and office furniture. Established in 1995, MIFF connects over 20,000 buyers from 140 countries and regions. The event is organised by Informa Markets, part of Informa PLC, a global B2B information services group and the world’s largest B2B event organiser. For more information, visit www.miff.com.my.