MIFB's Strategic
Conference

ELEVATING F&B BUSINESS

EMPOWERING INNOVATIONS

ENABLING TRANSFORMATION

A Sustainable Future in
Food & Beverage

This year’s MIFB 2024 Strategic Conference will look into the heart of innovation, transformation and sustainable growth in the F&B sector. Themed “Elevating F&B Business, Empowering Innovations, and Enabling Transformation”, the summit conference aims to offer a comprehensive platform for industry leaders, innovators, and expert to explore and exchange ideas that shape the future of food and beverage.

View Programme

The MIFB topics align with various SDGs, promoting sustainable practice and innovations that support global development goals

From Thin Air to Lush Greens: Sustainable Crop Production:

Goal 2

Contributing to food security by enabling sustainable crop production in diverse climates.

Goal 12

Encouraging sustainable agricultural practices.

Revolutionizing F&B Supply Chains by Connecting Farms to Markets:

Goal 9

Improving supply chain infrastructure and fostering innovation.

Goal 12

Reducing food waste through efficient supply chain management.

Demystifying Alternative Funding for F&B Success:

Goal 8

Supporting the growth of F&B businesses, leading to economic development.

Goal 9

Facilitating access to funding for innovative projects in the F&B sector.

Brewing Sustainability: How Prefer Coffee is Redefining the Future of Beverages

Goal 12

Promoting sustainable production methods.

Goal 13

Reducing the carbon footprint of coffee production.

ELEVATING F&B Business

Explore the evolving landscape of the F&B industry, focusing on the latest trends, brand dynamics, and marketing strategies. This segment offers deep insights into designing exceptional customer experiences and measuring the impactful “return on experience”.

EMPOWERING Innovations

Dive into the world of cutting-edge developments such as Alternative Proteins, AI-powered solutions, robotics, and other groundbreaking food and agricultural technologies. This section aims to showcase how innovation is not just reshaping the industry but also contributing to a more sustainable ecosystem.

ENABLING Transformation

Engage with leading experts discussing the integration of big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), digital transformation, and AI in the F&B sector. This part of the conference focuses on how technology enables businesses to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Join us in paving the way for a greener, more
innovative future in the Food & Beverage industry

The overarching emphasis on sustainability ties all these themes together,
reflecting our commitment to fostering an industry that not only grows but does
so responsibly and sustainably.

Conference Ticket

Early Bird Rate (13 May 2024 – 28 June 2024)	Normal Rate	Group Purchase (3 pax and above)	Students Student ID Required
RM1,950	RM2,500	20% off	RM350

* Subject to 8% sales & services tax (SST)

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MIFB Conference
Speakers

Bikesh Lakhmichand

Founding Partner & CEO 1337 Ventures

Amirah Jasmine

Founder / Formulist Manis Leting Sdn Bhd

Elaine Lee

Commercial Consultant
(Food Manufacturing and Quality Assurance)
– SWAPAC

Kenneth Chai

Founder of Airgro

View All Speakers

MIFB's Strategic
Conference Programme

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Official Opening Ceremony

120 mins

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Mastering the Regulatory Landscape for Food Trade in South East Asia

30 mins

Opening Doors: Mastering the Regulatory Landscape for Food Trade in South East Asia” provides a critical exploration of how food import and export regulations in the region have evolved from the pre-COVID era to the present day. This session will address the significant regulatory shifts that occurred due to the pandemic and discuss ongoing adaptations as the market continues to stabilize and grow. Attendees will gain insights into the key compliance strategies, latest trends, and practical steps necessary for navigating the complexities of the South East Asian food market. Our expert will outline the challenges and opportunities that have emerged, offering actionable intelligence to help your business thrive in this dynamic environment. This keynote is essential for anyone looking to understand the full spectrum of regulatory changes and seize new opportunities in South East Asia’s food trade.

12:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Networking Break

90 mins

1:30 PM - 1:50 PM

Trend 1
Turning Waste into Wealth: Upcycling Food Waste for a Sustainable Future

20 mins

Join us for an enlightening 20-minute session on “Turning Waste into Wealth: Upcycling Food Waste for a Sustainable Future,” where we delve into the latest trends and innovations in upcycling food waste. This presentation will highlight how turning waste into valuable products is revolutionizing the F&B industry, promoting sustainability, and contributing to a circular economy. Discover how these practices are setting new standards for environmental responsibility and business efficiency.

1:50 PM - 2:10 PM

Trend 2
Tech Talk: AI Revolutionising the F&B Industry

20 mins

Dive into the latest trends of artificial intelligence transforming the food and beverage sector, from intelligent automation to personalized customer experiences. This session will explore the future landscape of the F&B industry, highlighting how AI-driven innovations are set to redefine operations, enhance sustainability, and elevate service standards. Join us for a 20-minute glimpse into the groundbreaking advancements shaping the next generation of F&B.

2:10 PM - 2:30 PM

Trend 3
Future Foods Market Trends & Opportunities for Southeast Asia

20 mins

Explore the forefront of food innovation with our session on “Future Foods Market Trends & Opportunities for Southeast Asia.” This engaging discussion will delve into the transformative world of alternative proteins, from plant-based options to lab-grown solutions. Discover how these groundbreaking advancements are reshaping the food industry in one of the most dynamic and diverse regions globally. Our industry experts will provide a comprehensive analysis of the key drivers behind these trends, including shifting consumer preferences, technological innovations, and regulatory changes. Learn about the emerging opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable and ethical protein alternatives. Join us to gain valuable insights and stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving market of future foods in Southeast Asia.

2:30 PM - 2:50 PM

Trend 4
Urban Harvest: Cultivating Innovation in Urban Farming Practices

20 mins

Discover the flourishing world of urban farming, where innovative techniques and technologies are revolutionizing food production in urban environments, from vertical farming to aquaponics, and its potential to address food security challenges.

2:50 PM - 3:30 PM

Panel Discussion
Harvesting Innovation: Integrating F&B Trends for a Sustainable Future

40 mins

The panel will focus on synthesising insights from the preceding sessions on diverse F&B trends, including plant-based protein, urban farming, food technology, sustainable packaging, and consumer behavior. Panelists will explore how these trends intersect, synergize, and collectively contribute to shaping a more sustainable and innovative future for the F&B industry.

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Beyond Greenwashing: Authentic Sustainability Strategies for F&B Businesses

30 mins

This session will deep dive into the complexities of sustainability in the F&B sector, going beyond surface-level initiatives to explore authentic strategies that drive meaningful change. By examining the pitfalls of greenwashing and highlighting examples of genuine sustainability efforts, the session will provide actionable insights and practical guidance for F&B businesses striving to make a positive impact on the planet and society.

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Panel Discussion
Packaging Paradox: Balancing Aesthetics, Functionality, and Sustainability

30 mins

The ‘Packaging Paradox’ panel discussion will bring together professionals from the food and beverage sector to address the complex issue of how to strike a balance between form, function, and sustainability in packaging. Experts on the panel will delve into the complex relationship between packaging’s aesthetics, functionality, and environmental effect, and will share new ideas and best practices for creating eco-friendly products that sell. Discussed here are biodegradable materials and circular design principles as potential solutions to the packaging paradoxes plaguing the modern food and drink industry.

9:05 AM - 9:35 AM

Food Technologies of Tomorrow

30 mins

In this illuminating presentation, attendees will explore the cutting-edge technologies, groundbreaking trends, and disruptive innovations that are reshaping the landscape of the food industry. From AI-driven culinary creations to sustainable sourcing solutions and beyond, our keynote speaker will unveil the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, inspiring attendees to embrace innovation and drive positive change in the dynamic world of food.

9:35 AM - 9:55 AM

Turning Food Waste Into Furniture? How's That Possible?

20 mins

Discover the groundbreaking innovations in waste management with our session titled “Turning Food Waste Into Furniture? How’s That Possible?” This presentation will delve into the fascinating process of converting food waste into biofuel and stylish, functional furniture. Learn about the cutting-edge technologies and methods that make this transformation possible, and explore the environmental and economic benefits of upcycling waste. This session will provide valuable insights into how these practices contribute to a circular economy, reduce landfill waste, and promote sustainability. Join us to uncover the potential of turning everyday waste into extraordinary resources and the impact it can have on the F&B industry.

9:55 AM - 10:15 AM

Innovation Case Studies
Brewing Sustainability: How Prefer Coffee is Redefining the Future of Beverages

20 mins

Join us for an enlightening fireside chat with the founder of Prefer Coffee, a pioneering force in the sustainable beverage industry. In “Brewing Sustainability: How Prefer Coffee is Redefining the Future of Beverages,” we’ll explore the innovative journey of creating a bean-free coffee alternative that not only challenges traditional coffee production but also champions environmental stewardship. This discussion will delve into the motivations behind Prefer Coffee’s inception, the technological and creative processes involved in developing a sustainable product, and the broader implications for sustainability in the food and beverage industry. Learn how Prefer Coffee is setting new standards for eco-friendly practices and inspiring a wave of innovation across the global market. Whether you’re an industry professional, an environmental advocate, or simply a coffee enthusiast, this chat will offer valuable insights into the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and business.

10:15 AM - 10:35 AM

Innovation Case Studies
From Thin Air to Lush Greens: Sustainable Crop Production

20 mins

Explore a pioneering approach to sustainable crop production in our case study presentation titled “From Thin Air to Lush Greens: Sustainable Crop Production.” This session delves into an innovative system that utilizes Nephoponics technology, enabling the production of crops by extracting essential water and nutrients directly from the atmosphere. Discover the transformative processes involved, including thermal condensation dehumidification and nitrogen fixation through high-voltage plasma, which allow for growth in diverse climates without soil or traditional fertilizers. Learn about the scalability, environmental impacts, and the potential to revolutionize agriculture in arid regions and beyond. Join us to see how this cutting-edge technology is reshaping our understanding of farming and food security for a sustainable future.

10:35 AM - 10:55 AM

Innovation Case Studies
Revolutionising F&B Supply Chains by Connecting Farms to Markets

20 mins

Join us for a dynamic 20-minute session featuring Farm Konekt, an innovative community organising and clustering platform revolutionising the food and beverage supply chain. This session will explore how FarmKonek is bridging the gap between farmers and markets, creating a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable food supply network. Discover the key learnings from implementing this solution, the impact it’s making on the agricultural sector, and why it’s poised to transform how we source and distribute food. Learn how Farm Konekt is empowering farmers, reducing food waste, and ensuring fresher, more reliable produce for businesses and consumers alike. Whether you’re an F&B professional, a tech enthusiast, or someone passionate about sustainable agriculture, this session will provide valuable insights into the future of food supply chains.

10:55 AM - 11:30 AM

Panel Discussion
Innovating for a Sustainable Future: Aligning F&B Innovations with SDG Goals

35 mins

Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Innovating for a Sustainable Future: Aligning F&B Innovations with SDG Goals,” where industry pioneers will share their groundbreaking work in the food and beverage sector that directly contributes to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This session will feature leaders from Prefer Coffee, Airgro, and FarmKonek, who will discuss their innovative approaches to sustainability, from revolutionizing coffee production and sustainable crop cultivation to transforming supply chains. Learn how these trailblazers are addressing critical issues such as food security, responsible consumption, and climate action through their cutting-edge solutions. Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of integrating SDG goals into business models, and discover how innovation in the F&B industry can drive meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future.