Thursday, 30 November 2017

DMFW to put Dubai on the modest fashion map

Source: DMFW website. Poster advertising the Emerging Modest Fashion Designer Award.
Source: DMFW website. Poster advertising the Emerging Modest Fashion Designer Award.

Hitting the UAE for the first time, Dubai Modest Fashion Week (DMFW) follows on from the success of the London and Istanbul series, which feature international icons and award-winning designers from around the world.

Dubai Modest Fashion Week debuts 8-9 December at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai. Created by the founders of Think Fashion (Franka Soeria and Özlem Şahin) and Red Connect (one of the biggest names in creative media and events across the GCC), the event will showcase the latest modest fashion trends while driving the message that dressing modestly is a style choice.

Working towards coining Dubai as a hub for the multibillion dollar modest retail industry in the Middle East, organisers say the #DMFW roster will include more than 30 fashion shows from five continents, 50 brand booths, talk shows and workshops, plus a fashion exhibition. Confirmed industry talents include hijab supermodel Halima Aden, icon Dina Tokio, the face of modest fashion Mariah Idrissi, and Bollywood celebrity Huma Qureshi.

DMFW will also host the Emerging Modest Fashion Designer Award (EMFDA) with The Modist where one budding modest designer will showcase their collections on the runway and win an editorial with a prestigious fashion publication. Complementary art exhibitions offer immersive works from local and international artists and photographers.

Starting with a spectacular opening ceremony and the exclusive show of Modanisa.com, the weekend will see renowned brands and designers take to the runway, including shows from Huw Roman - Japan's leading modest fashion designer, and high-end modest label Fllumae-USA. India's first abaya designer Murcyleen Peerzada will be there. The final day will host an exclusive Wardah Beauty Show, featuring modest designers Etu, Norma Hauri, Ria Miranda, Zaskia Sungkar and Vogue Arabia's Modest Muse Dulce by Safiya Abdallah of the UAE.

Details:

Wednesday, 29 November 2017

Muis announces National Quranic Reading & Memorization competition 2018

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has announced a Quranic Reading & Memorization competition 2018 for Singaporeans and permanent residents.

The national competition, comprising the 51st Tilawah (recitation) and 9th Tahfiz (memorisation) competitions, aims to discover new talent in the field of proper (tarteel) reading, recitation and memorisation of  the Quran; identify people to potentially represent Singapore at the international level, and raise local standards as well as encourage interest in the Quran among the Muslim  community.

There will be three competition categories, for children, youths and adults respectively.

Category
Semifinals
Finals
Tilawah
Children
13 January 2018
10.30 am
Mujahidin Mosque
17 March 2018
2pm
MUIS, 273 Braddell Road
Youths
27 January 2018
10.30 am
Assyafaah Mosque
18 March 2018
Time : 10am
MUIS
Adults
10 February 2018
10.30 am
An-Nahdhah Mosque
17 March 2018
10am
MUIS
Tahfiz
24 and 25 February 2018
8.00am
Darul Aman Mosque

Judging criteria for recitation and memorisation are as follows:

In the Tilawah category


Criteria
Scoring
1
Pronunciation  (tajwid)
30 marks
2
Fluency (fasahah)
25 marks
3
Song (lagu)
25 marks
4
Voice  (suara)
20 marks

Total
100    marks


In the Tahfiz category:

Criteria
Scoring
Memorisation (hafadhan)
60
Pronunciation (tajwid)
30
Fluency (fasahah)
10

Each participant will be tested on three questions.

Children
1 minute per question
Youths
1.5 minutes per question
Adults
2 minutes per question


The champion qari and qariah (male and female Quran reciter) will each receive a challenge trophy. Finalists will receive a certificate of participation and cash prizes.

Details:

Competitors should complete the official entry form, which can be obtained from participating mosques:

An-Nahdhah Mosque, 9A Bishan Street 14
Assyafaah Mosque, 1 Admiralty Lane
Darul Aman Mosque, 1 Jalan Eunos
Mujahidin Mosque, 590 Stirling Road
An-Nur Mosque, 6 Admiralty Road
Kampung Siglap Mosque (Secretariat), 451 Marine Parade Road

Online forms are also available from the MUIS website and the Masjid Kampung Siglap website.

A non-refundable registration fee of S$15 is required. Payment and submission of completed registration forms together with a recent colour passport sized photograph can only be made in person, at Kampung Siglap Mosque.

Participants are required to provide valid email address and telephone number for communication. All information prior to the competition shall be provided/ communicated through email.

Opening hours for the Kampung Siglap Payment Counter are:

Monday–Saturday
8.30am-5.30pm

Sunday
8.30am -12.30 pm

Closed on public holidays and during fardh prayers.

A briefing for participants will be held on 6 January 2018 at 10am at An-Nur Mosque.

*Terms and conditions for participating in international competitions.

 Travel expenses and accommodation will be covered by the organiser in the event if the participant is selected to represent the country at an international event or competition.

 Participants representing the country at the event or international competition will be accompanied by an official, if permitted by the organising committee/country. The organiser is responsible for appointing such officers.

 Participants who wish to bring along their family members should abide to the terms and conditions by the organiser.

 All travel arrangements and expenses for family members should be borne by the participants themselves (such as air tickets, accommodation and personal expenses).

 Family members accompanying participants are not allowed to live/stay together with the participants during the event.

Tuesday, 28 November 2017

State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2017/18 forecasts Islamic finance asset value at nearly US$4 trillion by 2022

· Muslim spend on halal food and beverage forecast to reach US$1.93 trillion by 2022

· Islamic finance assets expected to surge to US$3.8 trillion by 2022

· UAE ranks third globally across three sectors

The Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC) has unveiled the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2017-2018, titled Outpacing the Mainstream. The report, issued annually by DIEDC in collaboration with Thomson Reuters, was released on the sidelines of the 5th Islamic Economy Award, held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. 

Although Malaysia leads the Global Islamic Economy Indicator for this year, the UAE has been ranked first among 10 countries in three sector indicators – Modest Fashion, Halal Media and Recreation, and Halal Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics.

HE Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of DIEDC, said: “This year’s Global Islamic Economy Indicator testifies to the success of the UAE in pioneering an appropriate Islamic economy ecosystem within a short period, when compared with other nations that have been active in fostering this niche economic system - especially in the halal industries space. Shari'ah-compliant sectors are central to the Islamic economic system and attract the most investment – thereby facilitating an Islamic economy-friendly environment.”

HE highlighted that the indicator evaluated the health of the Islamic economy ecosystem across more than 73 countries, based on equally weighted key metric categories, including governance, awareness, and social considerations. The UAE’s exceptional performance highlights the synergy between the government’s wise vision and the practices of the private sector, he said.

Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO of DIEDC said: “Over the past few years, the findings of the report have continually provided us with new insights and perspectives to better understand the dynamics of consumer behaviour among Muslims across key markets. Each year the report offers fresh facts and statistics that project a promising future for the Islamic economy sector.”

Addressing the developments realised in the past year, he added: “Year-on-year, we are witnessing a surge in demand for products that are manufactured in compliance with stringent environmental sustainability, safety and health standards. The meticulous adherence of Islamic economy products to such standards across the production, distribution and supply value chain explains their increased attractiveness and uptake among larger segments of the world population today."

He concluded: “The decline in oil prices has led to a fundamental shift in the nature of the economies of the GCC region and led to a greater focus in developing non-oil productive sectors. This trend has positioned the halal industry and trade in a prime position as growth drivers of the economy for the coming years.”

Nadim Najjar, MD, Middle East and North Africa at Thomson Reuters said: “For the fifth consecutive year, the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report presents the latest developments and trends from the Islamic economy while also highlighting its future direction. The Islamic economy is at the cusp of major growth and widespread recognition, having gained traction as Muslims increasingly assert their religiosity and traditional values in their economic decision making.

"Awareness about the concept of 'halal' is on the rise, and companies are responding to these consumer needs. Also, for the first time, we have done an assessment of the future state of the Islamic economy and what it look like by 2030, which could see the emergence of numerous scaled global enterprises, if core challenges and opportunities are addressed.”

The State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2017/18 estimates Muslim spend across food, beverage, and lifestyle sectors at US$2 trillion in 2016, accounting for 11.9% of global expenditure. By category, food and beverages (F&B) lead Muslim spend at US$1.24 trillion, followed by clothing and apparel at US$254 billion, media and entertainment at US$198 billion, travel at US$169 billion, and spending on pharmaceuticals and cosmetics at US$83 billion and US$57.4 billion respectively.

The report found halal food to be the largest and most diverse sector of the Islamic economy. New entrants have come into the market, and product offerings have firmly moved beyond being meat-focused to include candy, ready-made meals, snacks and children’s food.

Established players are expanding at home and abroad through franchising. Multinationals have also made major investments in Muslim-majority markets, anticipating rising demand. Meanwhile, private equity investment and sovereign wealth funds have been particularly active, and a number of halal investment funds are in development.

The International Halal Accreditation Forum, established in the UAE in 2017 and overseeing 19 certifiers globally, is a further positive development for the industry. With Muslim spend on food and beverages growing at nearly double that of global growth, there are significant opportunities for investment and the creation of global halal food brands, with spending expected to reach US$1.93 trillion by 2022, the report said.

The Islamic finance sector continues to evolve. Both Muslim-majority and Muslim-minority countries are recognising the segment’s potential, with banks becoming fully-fledged Islamic institutions, and governments encouraging Islamic finance to improve financial inclusion. The sukuk industry continues to mature, with a number of debut sukuk issuances over the past year and more in the pipeline.

Further propelling growth is the adoption of Islamic fintech, be it the world’s first shari'ah-compliant robo-advisory firm (Algebra), or the first shari'ah-compliant gold platform. Notably, such endeavours have been achieved through utilising crowdfunding. Assets were estimated at over US$2 trillion in 2016, and expected to surge to US$3.8 trillion by 2022.

Family-friendly travel is getting its moment in the sun. The number of Muslims travelling is at an all-time high, and there is corresponding demand for travel that adheres to Islamic values, be it hotels and beach resorts, to dining options and airlines. Halal hotel chains are also emerging and family-friendly attractions are being developed in the GCC. Along with a plethora of new online agencies catering to Muslim tourists, the Muslim equivalents of Airbnb have emerged. Muslim spend on travel was US$169 billion in 2016, and is forecast to reach US$283 billion by 2022.

As for modest fashion, designer brands and boutiques have recognized that Modest Fashion is trending, developing new lines and Ramadan collections. Start-up Modest Fashion brands have also been making inroads around the world, particularly for Hijabs, gaining traction by spreading the word through social media. Modest athletic apparel is a notably trendy segment, with Nike getting in on the act as well as Danish label Hummel. Muslim spend on clothing was US$254 billion in 2016, and is forecast to reach US$373 billion by 2022.

Halal media is challenging perceptions and adapting to the needs of Muslim Millennials. New films are being released, TV channels are going on air, and mainstream media is increasingly embracing Islamic content, be it on Buzzfeed, or Amazon Channels offering films and documentaries about Muslim culture and life through streaming service Alchemiya. Muslim spend on media and entertainment was US$198 billion in 2016, and is forecast to reach US$281 billion by 2022.

The halal pharmaceuticals and cosmetics sector is quickly moving out of its niche status, especially halal cosmetics. Companies continue to open and make their presence felt on retail shelves and online. Multinational companies are also recognising the segment’s potential, notably US-based Orly teaming up with Muslimgirl.com to create and launch six halal nail polishes in time for Ramadhan. Spend on cosmetics was estimated at US$57.4 billion, and to reach US$82 billion by 2022.

Halal pharmaceuticals are equally gaining traction, especially the biologics (medical drug made from biological sources) and nutraceuticals (product with both food value and other health benefits), while halal-certified vaccines for dengue fever, polio and meningococcal meningitis (for Hajj) are soon to be launched worldwide. Muslims spend on pharmaceuticals was US$83 billion in 2016, and is forecast to reach US$132 billion by 2022.

Hashtag: #SGIE

Philips showcases limited edition Star Wars shavers at Singapore popup

Source: Philips. Stormtroopers pose with the BB8-inspired shaver (left) and the Stormtrooper-inspired shaver (right).
Source: Philips. Stormtroopers pose with the BB8-inspired shaver
(left) and the Stormtrooper-inspired shaver (right).
The Philips Master Your Shave popup store was launched yesterday at the Bugis+ mall in Singapore in the lead-up to the new Star Wars: The Last Jedi movie. Till 3 December 2017, Star Wars fans can experience some Star Wars action at Bugis+ with Philips at the popup store.

Visitors to the popup can enter a life-sized ‘toy-box’ style photo booth, posing next to their favourite Star Wars characters for Instagram memories.
Source: Philips.  The SW170  Stormtrooper  shaver.
Source: Philips.
The SW170
Stormtrooper-
inspired shaver.

Philips will also be presenting two special edition shavers featuring its cutting-edge rotary technology. Both shavers are part of a new range of shavers which emulate different characters from the Star Wars movie collection.
The shavers, a BB-8-inspired SW5700/07 (recommended retail price [RRP] S$149) and Philips Star Wars in Stormtrooper-inspired SW170/04 (RRP S$109) will be on sale at the popup. 

The SW5700/07 has five-direction flex heads that glide close to the skin for a close shave, even in tricky areas along the neck and jawline. The shaver’s Aquatec Wet & Dry seal gives a close shave wet or dry, while its 50-minute running time gives you more shaves without recharging.

The rounded edges and four-direction Flex Heads on the lightweight SW170/04 shaver ensure a comfortable, protective shave. Its ComfortCut Blade System will get as close as possible to the skin while protecting it from nicks and cuts.

Source: Philips. The SW6700 Poe Dameron- inspired shaver.
Source: Philips.
The SW6700
Poe Dameron-
inspired shaver.
A third shaver, the Poe Dameron-inspired Philips Star Wars Shaver SW6700/14 (RRP S$219) is available exclusively at the Best Denki store. Eight-directional ContourDetect flex heads automatically recalibrate to every curve of the neck and face. The design is inspired by Poe Dameron’s X-wing fighter, down to the scratched metal finishing and red stripes. The Star Wars features continue with a red X-wing symbol flickering during use.

Featuring V-Track Precision Pro technology, the shaver boasts 72 self-sharpening V-shaped blades and cuts at 151,000 times per minute without pulling or tugging. This technology positions each hair in the best cutting position, even on a three-day stubble for a shave 30% closer* to the skin, while leaving no irritation or burns.

“This collection will not only excite Star Wars fans but also gentlemen who want to up their shaving game. The Philips Star Wars shavers will be introduced at wallet-friendly prices while still offering all-star performance. All Philips shavers make use of a proprietary rotary shaving technology that is designed to follow the contours of the face, offering the closest shave possible and can be used on-the-go for ultimate flexibility and convenience,” said Aw Ee Ling, Senior Marketing Manager, Personal Health, Philips Singapore.

Source: Philips.  The SW5700  shaver inspired by the BB-8.
Source: Philips.
The SW5700
shaver inspired by
the BB-8.
There will also be experience booths where visitors can pick up some expert Jedi Master level tips to make sure that they stay on top of their shaving game.

Details: 

The limited edition shavers will be available at the popup store till 3 December and until 31 December 2017 at selected electronic stores, major departmental stores and authorised dealers in Singapore as well as online - select “Singapore” for shavers available in Singapore.

Those who take a photo at the Star Wars toybox or with mascots and post them to Instagram with the hashtags #MasterYourShave and #PhilipsSG, and tag @PhilipsSG stand a chance to win a Philips Star Wars Shaver (BB-8 SW5700) and Kylo Ren Force FX Lightsaber by Hasbro (recommended selling price S$399.90). Chances are doubled for those who buy a shaver at the popup store. 

The popup store is open from 12pm to 9pm daily at Level 1 Civic Plaza @ Bugis+ in the outdoor area beside Uniqlo. Bugis + is at 201 Victoria Street, Singapore 188067.

Source: Philips infographic. Know the differences between manual and electric shavers.
Source: Philips infographic. The differences between manual and electric shavers.

Source: Philips infographic. Beard and moustache styles most suited to face shapes.
Source: Philips infographic. Beard and moustache styles most suited to face shapes.

*Cuts 30% closer in less strokes compared to the Philips predecessor.

Monday, 27 November 2017

Winners of 5th Islamic Economy Award announced

HH Sheikh Hamdan (centre) with winners of the 5th Islamic Economy Award.
Source: DIEDC, Dubai Chamber and Thomson Reuters. HH Sheikh Hamdan (centre) with winners of the 5th Islamic Economy Award.  

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and General Supervisor of the Dubai Capital of Islamic Economy initiative, today honoured the winners of the 5th Islamic Economy Award in a ceremony held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, UAE.

Launched by the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC) and organised by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Dubai Chamber) and Thomson Reuters, the awards were presented to global and local business establishments in recognition of their innovative, world-class business initiatives and shari'ah-compliant ideas that contribute to the social and economic welfare of the Muslim population.

Ibrahim bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Alsubeaei, Chairman of the Board at Masic, Saudi Arabia received the Lifetime Achievement Award 2017 on behalf of his father, the late Mohammed bin Ibrahim Alsubeaei, former co-founder of Bank Al Bilad, KSA for his contributions to the Islamic economy as well to charity.

- The Money and Finance category award was received by Yielders from the UK, an organisation offering shari'ah-compliant investment opportunities.

- The award in the Food and Health category went to Emirates International Accreditation Center (EIAC), a governmental accreditation body based in Dubai that grants halal accreditation to conformity assessment bodies worldwide. 

- The Media category award was given to OnePath Network from Australia, a film production studio that uses media to showcase the beauty and harmony of Islam.

Recipients in other categories included US-based Divine Connect in the Hospitality and Tourism category, Ihsan Trust from Pakistan in the Waqf and Endowments category, Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Centre (Dtec) – Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority from the UAE for the SME Development category, and the International Shariah Research Academy for Islamic Finance (ISRA) from Malaysia in the Islamic Economy Knowledge Infrastructure category. Modanisa from Turkey was presented with the Islamic Arts category award. 

HE Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre, said: "The award ceremony is not only a celebration of individual and collective contributions that are driving the growth of Islamic economy sectors locally and internationally, but also a celebration of Dubai’s initiatives and the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum that responded to the urgent global need to develop an ethical and integrated economic system."

Al Mansouri said DIEDC’s updated strategy and new initiatives, implemented in collaboration with its strategic partners, have created a favourable legislative and regulatory environment for Islamic economic institutions to ensure their significant contribution to the GDP through diversifying the sources of income and attracting foreign investment.

"Today, (the) Islamic economy has a strong presence in the global economic orientation towards stimulating growth, sustainability and equity in development. This presence is exemplified in the interest of governments, private sector institutions and investors from around the world in identifying and developing a greater understanding of the principles and standards of Islamic financial products. 

"The Islamic economy has placed Dubai and the UAE at the centre of this international orientation, making the country a key incubator of its standards, cultures and innovations. And here lies the importance of the Islamic Economy Award that helps innovators present models for the future of this promising economic system.”

He added: "The opportunity today is more favourable than ever to promote the Islamic economy. China's One Belt One Road initiative, where Islamic finance products such as sukuk are playing an important role in financing the projects associated with the initiative, is an outstanding example of what can be achieved. We are also witnessing the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises and a new generation of companies that have benefited from the lessons learned in the aftermath of the global financial crisis and are looking for product quality, sustainable growth and safe investment. 

"Concerted international efforts are underway for the timely implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which will leverage investments with a positive social impact, promote awareness of resource sustainability and environmental safety, in addition to promising long-term local and regional plans and programmes aimed at achieving economic diversification and reducing dependence on oil. The Islamic economy is closely aligned with these efforts to achieve sustainability.”

HE Sami Al Qemzi, Vice Chairman of Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre, said the winners are essential partners for Dubai and the wider UAE in their efforts to contribute to the growth and sustainability of an Islamic economy. “For the fifth year in a row, Dubai, the potential capital of the Islamic economy, recognises and celebrates innovators that echo the principles and values of the Islamic economy and understand how necessary it is to contribute to the development of its various sectors. Their resilient efforts remarkably support the Islamic economy in fulfilling its sustainable development goals, both regionally and on a global scale," he said. 

“In its first edition, the Islamic Economy Award garnered 148 participants from 31 countries. Since then, we have arrived at a total of 1,100 applications from 48 countries. These facts are proof of the success and growth that the Islamic economy is achieving and the wide reach that it is gaining across the world. In these facts, we also find concrete proof of the realisation of the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for Dubai to become the capital of the Islamic economy.”

HE Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Member of the Board of the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre highlighted the importance of the Islamic Economy Award in supporting the development of the Islamic economy sector. “The fifth edition of the Islamic Economy Award is a continuation of our efforts to establish Dubai as a global capital for Islamic economy.

"Dubai Chamber's support for this award stems from its belief that recognising innovators is one of the most effective ways to encourage and stimulate activity within the Islamic economy sector, which has become an engine of sustainable growth for Dubai.”

Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO, Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre, said: “The Islamic Economy Award celebrates individuals and organisations who have been instrumental in shining a positive light on the Islamic economy. We live in an ever-evolving society where technological advancements are bolstering the nature of innovative solutions. However, without the human component present behind the steering wheel, these innovative solutions would not come to fruition.”

He added: “Today’s winners will serve as tomorrow’s mentors as we continue to nurture those with drive and innovative solutions aimed at bringing the Islamic economy to the forefront of the regional and global economic landscape.”

Hashtag: #IEAward

Halal International 2017 focuses on the Muslimah this year

Signage for Halal International 2017.
Signage for the event.
MegaXpress, organiser of Halal International 2017, incorporated the World of Muslimah in the event this year. A significant portion of the showfloor was set aside for ladies' products.

The event, which ran from November 23 to 26 at Singapore Expo, also showcased the best of halal food and drink, as well as 'anchor' booth exhibitors such as fragrances, wedding services and furniture.

Halal International 2017 is in aid of the Muhammadiyah Association of Singapore.

Highlights of the event included:

A small section of booths by celebrities under the CELEBRANDS name featured popular local and overseas celebrities/artistes selling and promoting their own brand of products.
 
Ziana Zain launched her hijab fashion collection in 2016.
Ziana Zain launched her hijab fashion collection in 2016.

Juzash by Jasmine Ashraff had a Celebrands booth this year.
Juzash by Jasmine Ashraff had a Celebrands booth this year. 

Celebrity Liza Abdullah offered dresses incorporating peplum and ruffle details.
Celebrity Liza Abdullah offered dresses incorporating peplum and ruffle details.

Exhibitors speak on stage about their wares.
Exhibitors speak on stage about their wares. Here celebrity Hady Mirza (right, on stage) introduces his products at the show. 

Other fashion-related booths included:

The Innera brand of hijab "inners" feature headwear that can be worn underneath headscarves.
The Innera brand of hijab "inners" feature headwear that can be worn underneath headscarves. Hashtag: #innerpal

Batiks at Mahmud Ali Basha.
Batiks at Mahmud Ali Basha. 

Modest swimwear was available from Graceful Swimmers.
Modest swimwear was available from Graceful Swimmers.

While most of the fashion was for ladies, the Bin Sadin menswear collection was represented at Halal International 2017.
While most of the fashion was for ladies, the Bin Sadin menswear collection was represented at Halal International 2017.

What is an event named "halal" without halal foods?

Tempting Trading by Hady Mirza sells sambals and sauces.
Tempting Trading by Hady Mirza sells sambals and sauces.

Dendeng - a halal version of bak kwa, traditionally barbecued pork slices - sold in tacos by Taco Dendeng.
Dendeng - a halal version of bak kwa, traditionally barbecued pork slices - sold in tacos by Taco Dendeng. Hashtag: #tacoDendengDuo.

Unusual foods included lapis cake from Brunei - Kek Lapis Brunei - in unusual flavours like mint.
Unusual foods included lapis cake from Brunei - Kek Lapis Brunei - in rare flavours like mint.

Another stall offering cake in unusual flavours and textures, such as cheese, Nutella, or butterscotch. Lady Boss Bake Boutique had namecards in the shape of cupcakes.
Another stall offering cake in unusual flavours and textures, such as cheese, Nutella, or butterscotch. Lady Boss Bake Boutique had namecards in the shape of cupcakes.  

Intricately patterned cakes from MyZiff Bakers.
Intricately patterned cakes from MyZiff Bakers.

Visitors could also try KopieSatu durian coffee for S$8.
Visitors could also try KopieSatu durian coffee for S$8. The truck is an initiative from Agrobazaar, which promotes goods grown and produced in Malaysia. Agrobazaar's current fruit promotion is for the durian.

Camelus' camel milk powder and foods made from camel milk, including cookies.
Camelus' camel milk powder and foods made from camel milk, including cookies. These are from Palmabrand Camel Milk, a Malaysia-based company that produces beauty, health and alternative food supplements from camel's milk. The cookies taste like normal cookies.

Sweet Monster halal-certified ice cream from Korea is available in Singapore.
Sweet Monster halal-certified ice cream from Korea is available in Singapore.

The display at Zie's cookies by Naz Confection.
The display at Zie's cookies by Naz Confection.

Gaharu Tea Valley Gopeng maintains its own plantation of agarwood (oud) trees which are used to formulate the drinks.
Gaharu Tea Valley Gopeng maintains its own plantation of agarwood (oud) trees which are used to formulate the drinks. The signage says gaharu is effective against diabetes. In an experiment with rats, an alcoholic extract made from gaharu lowered glucose levels even more than insulin.

Maiq Coffee, from Mt Rinjani, Lombok, Indonesia, had medium roast Arabica coffee at the event.
Maiq Coffee, from Mt Rinjani, Lombok, Indonesia, had medium roast Arabica coffee at the event.

AmneLife sells stevia sweetener (foreground) and a product for detoxing (background).
AmneLife sells stevia sweetener (foreground) and a product for detoxing (background).

Malaysia's Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) had a booth where fresh jackfruit was available for sale.
Malaysia's Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) had a booth where fresh jackfruit was available for sale.

FAMA also had fresh durian on the scene.
FAMA also had fresh durian on the scene.
Other items of note included:

The USaidizi Orphans Organisation supports orphans with HIV and AIDS in Tanzania, Africa. Leather goods were made of camel skin.
The USaidizi Orphans Organisation supports orphans with HIV and AIDS in Tanzania, Africa. Leather goods were made of camel skin.

Hijra Timepiece clocks and watches run anticlockwise, and the numbers are in the Arabic script.
Hijra Timepiece clocks and watches run anticlockwise, and the numbers are in the Arabic script. Read more about them in the Suroor Asia blog post about Celebfest.

The Smart Sajadah (prayer rug) has pressure-sensitive sensors so it can track the number of rak'ah (prayer cycles) that have been completed.
The Smart Sajadah (prayer rug) has pressure-sensitive sensors so it can track the number of rak'ah (prayer cycles) that have been completed. A compass locates qiblah direction, and various prayers are available. The sajadah costs RM179 online.

Mini e-Qurans from Muslim Valley.
Mini e-Qurans from Muslim Valley.

E-marketplace Aladdin Street had a recruitment programme on.
E-marketplace Aladdin Street had a recruitment programme on. Read the Suroor Asia blog post about Aladdin Street's launch in 2016.

The booth for the Muhammadiyah Association, which is the event recipient this year.
The booth for the Muhammadiyah Association, which is the event recipient this year.