Malaysia International Ornamental Fish and Aquarium Expo Boosts Regional Aquatic Trade
26 Dec
Author: Yang Jialin
Editor: Zhang Yao
Aquatic Expo Entrance Go-To Check-In Spot
[Photo by Yang Jialin]
Bandar Bukit Jalil, 26 Dec. - The 2025 Malaysia International Ornamental Fish & Aquarium Expo kicked off on Dec. 26 at Level 5, Pink Zone of Pavilion Exhibition Centre Bukit Jalil. Hosted by the Malaysia Ornamental Fish Association and organized by Southeast Asia Aquatic Trade Events Sdn. Bhd., the three-day event runs until Dec. 28, open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Covering 15,000 square meters, it gathers 298 exhibitors from Malaysia, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam and other countries, emerging as a pivotal platform for cross-border trade, technological exchange and cultural sharing in the regional ornamental fish and aquarium sector.
The expo features a diverse array of exhibits spanning ornamental fish, aquatic plants, aquarium equipment and creative aquascaping works, drawing industry practitioners, retailers, hobbyists and media representatives. Local Malaysian breeds such as the Penang Guppy and captive-bred Golden Arowana share the spotlight with international highlights, including rare freshwater species from China and Indonesia, creating a dynamic atmosphere for trade negotiations and experience sharing.
Nadi Bangi interviews, conducted at the venue, Chong Li Na, Marketing Director of the expo’s organizing committee, shared concise insights on the event’s goals. “We focused on balancing small breeders’ needs with international suppliers’ logistics,” Chong said. “Steady attendee flow and effective business matching have made this a worthwhile platform for both sides.”
Tan Jia Le, founder of Fish Tails Aquatic Studio, a Kuala Lumpur-based boutique brand, also shared insights during the interviews. “I founded Fish Tails five years ago out of a personal passion for unique aquatic ecosystems,” Tan said. “Unlike large-scale suppliers, we focus on rare species and customized scaping services for home and commercial spaces. The expo has helped us reach a targeted audience—many visitors stopped by to inquire about our services, and we’ve discussed collaboration opportunities with three local interior design firms. It’s a great way to validate our niche positioning.”
Lim’s Winning Team at CKH Aquatic’s Exhibition Booth
[Photo by Lim’s team's social media]
Lim Teck Yong, Director of Aquatic Business at CKH Aquatic, a trusted local aquatic supplier, emphasized feedback and collaboration. “We’re here to showcase our products and listen to the market,” Lim explained. “We’ve gained valuable product input and locked in bulk deals with 2 Singaporean partners.” ”
Beyond product displays, the expo also offers practical activities for attendees, including live aquascaping workshops led by industry experts, basic fish care tutorials and a Meet the Breeders session. These sessions are designed to share practical skills, promote responsible breeding practices and foster connections among industry peers.
As of opening day evening, preliminary trade negotiations had reached over RM1.2 million. Industry insiders noted that such regional expos play a crucial role in integrating Southeast Asia’s fragmented aquatic markets, reducing trade barriers and promoting standardized breeding and conservation practices.
To support attendees, the organizing committee provides on-site services including exhibition guides and business matching assistance at the information desk. For more details, interested parties can follow the expo’s official social media accounts.