UBM Malaysia today announced that the inaugural Southeast Asia Furniture & Interiors Import-Export Exhibition (SEAFIE) exhibition, scheduled for 13-16th September in Kuala Lumpur has been moved to next year, and will premiere at the 20th Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF), held from 4-8th March at the Putra World Trade Centre and the MATRADE Exhibition and Convention Centre (MECC) in Kuala Lumpur.

Karen Goi, general manager, Furniture & Interiors of UBM Malaysia, said that while SEAFIE has drawn encouraging buyer interest, with pre-registration from over 40 countries to date, the decision to postpone it was due to the response from exhibitors to participate at this time of year, which did not meet UBM Malaysia’s benchmarks and standards.

“We see the demand is strong for mid- to high-end furniture and furnishings in ASEAN, but for now must also consider our responsibility to all of our customers, both furniture manufactures and buyers," says Karen. "Still, we have chosen to continue to create a platform for buyers, architects and designers interested in the mid- to high-end products by launching SEAFIE as a special feature at the 20th anniversary of MIFF next year.

"This move still gives exhibitors more value for their participation as well as more product selection for buyers. In many respects, SEAFIE’s movement to MIFF’s 20th anniversary is demonstrative of our commitment to furthering the growth of the industry but at the same time considering the immediate needs of our long-time partners and community.”

A specially designated SEAFIE Hall will be allocated to exhibitors from local and overseas furnishing companies at MIFF 2014 complete with a host of activities and events dedicated towards the mid-to-high-end furniture marketplace.