Understanding SST Changes: What F&B, Rental & Leasing
FROM MUSIC TO MARKET LEADER THE RISE OF GOODWILL EVEREST IN SUSTAINABILITY PACKAGING
FROM MUSIC TO MARKET LEADER THE RISE OF GOODWILL EVEREST IN SUSTAINABILITY PACKAGING
Isabelle Nah, Founder & Managing Director
Isabelle Nah, Founder & Managing Director
Goodwill Everest Sdn Bhd
Goodwill Everest Sdn Bhd
Isabelle Nah, Founder & Managing Director Goodwill Everest Sdn Bhd
Members Convene For A Strategic Evening
FROM MUSIC TO MARKET LEADER: THE RISE OF GOODWILL EVEREST IN SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING
A One-Stop Packaging Solution for the F&B Industry
When Isabelle Nah first embarked on her professional journey, she could hardly have predicted that she would one day lead one of Malaysia’s fastestgrowing disposable food packaging companies. Armed with a music degree from Budapest, her early years were shaped by the discipline of practice rooms and the structured creativity of classical compositions. Today, she is the founder and Managing Director of Goodwill Everest Sdn Bhd (GWE Group), a thriving enterprise approaching RM100 million in revenue by 2025 and redefining the standards of packaging for Malaysia’s food and beverage (F&B) industry. Her humble venture has evolved into a leader in sustainable packaging with an 80,000 sq ft warehouse, over 1500 SKUs, and more than 3,000 customers.
AN UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITY
“I started my journey far from the business world,” Isabelle reflects.
Her training in music instilled values that would later serve her well in business: precision, emotional intelligence, composure under pressure, and the importance of structure and timing. These qualities unexpectedly paved the way for her success in an entirely different arena.
After returning to Malaysia, Isabelle taught music, but she was on the lookout for something more. Then came a moment that changed everything — a friend of her father told her that a modest trading business in the disposable food packaging industry was seeking an exit. The company had limited revenue, barely touching RM500,000 annually, and its operations were old-fashioned. Yet, Isabelle saw its potential to be something much more.
“As long as there are people, there will be food. And there will always be a need to package it,” she quipped.
Driven by the belief that food packaging is a necessary and evergreen industry, she took the leap. That decision became the
cornerstone of Goodwill Everest, and what started as a small trading venture is now a rising force in the local and international F&B packaging scene.
BRIDGING THE GAPS
Isabelle quickly identified a pressing problem faced by food and beverage operators: sourcing reliable, quality and sustainable packaging from a single supplier was nearly impossible. The market was fragmented, plagued by unreliable timelines, inconsistent quality and outdated product options.
“F&B operators needed a onestop solution. They needed someone they could trust for quality, fast delivery and competitive pricing,” she explained. “I wanted to build that partner for them.”
From the very beginning, Goodwill Everest was built not just to supply products but to solve problems. Isabelle envisioned a business that would deliver innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainability all in one go, and it worked. With a clear purpose
and a customer-centric model, the company gained traction even in a saturated market.
GROWING THROUGH INNOVATION AND RELIABILITY
Starting with just RM1 million in sales 12 years ago, GWE Group had by 2025 hit RM100 million in annual revenue. Its product range has also grown significantly, now encompassing:
● Paper and plastic cups (PET, PP and water-based coated)
● Food containers in various materials, including biodegradable options
● Garbage bags, straws, carrying bags and other essentials
● Custom-branded packaging solutions from design to production
The company’s recent focus has been on green innovation, in line with growing global interest in sustainability. GWE’s eco-friendly lines, including water-based coated paper cups (100% plastic-free and home compostable), PLA-coated paper products, and biodegradable packaging, are a timely response to increasing demand for sustainable options. In fact, GWE was the first and only trading house in Malaysia to earn the SIRIM ECO-001 & ECO009 certifications, and the pioneer of Malaysia’s aqueous-coated paper cups.
Today, GWE serves nearly 70% of the F&B franchise market in Malaysia, supplying to cafes, restaurants and retail convenience stores. The group has also expanded globally, reaching customers in the European Union, United States, Middle East and Africa.
BUILDING SYSTEMS, RELATIONSHIPS AND CAPABILITIES
A key part of GWE’s success lies in its seamless operations and dependable service. GWE has evolved into a
company that values not only scale but also precision and consistency:
● A procurement team that works directly with factories to maintain strict quality control
● A responsive customer service unit focused on long-term relationships
● A logistics and inventory system optimised for fast, dependable delivery
Over the years, GWE has forged strategic partnerships with DBKL, various state governments, and PLUS Highway to support impactful green initiatives across Malaysia. On the global front, GWE continues to expand its footprint across ASEAN, the European Union, the United States, the Middle East and Africa. Strengthening its manufacturing capabilities, the company has also
“
Success is a daily pursuit—built on consistency, care and courage. At GWE, we believe true success means giving back to society while growing our business. Thus, our journey reflects our core values of innovation and social responsibility.
Together with our partners, we’ll continue shaping a greener, more resilient future for Malaysia.
”
Isabelle Nah, Founder & Managing Director of Goodwill Everest Sdn Bhd
established joint venture plants in both Malaysia and China to meet growing international demand. Soon, the company will level up even further. In October 2025, GWE will move into a new 80,000 square foot warehouse, greatly increasing storage capacity and operational efficiency. With foodsafe certifications FSSC 22000, ISO 22000 and halal certifications in place, which is a rare standard in the packaging industry, GWE is set for greater growth and success. This marks a significant milestone in GWE’s ambition to scale further into regional and international markets.
Vertical integration has been a game changer. Through its joint venture manufacturing plant in China, GWE controls not just the supply but
also the production and innovation pipeline. This gives clients consistency in supply, cost-saving advantages, and the ability to customise packaging from design to final print, which are critical needs for modern brands looking to stand out.
LENDING A HELPING HAND
GWE’s commitment extends beyond packaging, because the company strongly believes in uplifting communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, GWE donated essential supplies to frontliners including PDRM, KDN, ATM, Customs and media personnel.
“We’ve partnered with local councils and state governments such as DBKL, MBPJ, the states of Malacca and Penang, and PLUS Highway, to promote and
implement green packaging initiatives,” said Isabelle.
In line with its social responsibility vision, GWE also plays a role in improving the livelihoods of the B40 income group. It launched the GWE Van Sales Program, a lowcapital, tech-driven microbusiness platform that empowers aspiring entrepreneurs, including retirees, homemakers, and part-time workers, with an affordable means
to generate sustainable income. With only RM5,000 startup cost, participants receive RM15,000 worth of eco-packaging stock, a mobile POS system, and direct support from GWE.
“This initiative is more than a business. it’s a pathway to local entrepreneurship. By collaborating with government agencies and local councils, we’re helping B40 individuals become
self-sufficient, while expanding access to sustainable packaging in underserved areas such as night markets, food courts and small cafés,” said Isabelle.
LOOKING AHEAD: BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM
The next chapter for GWE is even more ambitious. The company is now developing its GWE Eco Network, a bold initiative that aims to unify the entire F&B packaging and delivery value chain, from raw material sourcing and packaging production to delivery and waste tracking.
This holistic ecosystem will be driven by automation, smart warehousing and digital platforms, making GWE a future-ready organisation. The long-term vision? To become a regional leader in sustainable F&B solutions and eventually list on the stock exchange.
“We want to lead not just in packaging, but in how the entire F&B value chain operates — more sustainably, more efficiently and more transparently,” said Isabelle.
SUPERCARFOODIE
As part of its commitment to adding value beyond packaging, GWE also operates SupercarFoodie, which is a lifestyle-driven social media platform with over 20,000 followers and more
HOW DOES GWE ENSURE PRODUCT QUALITY?
Even for disposable items, GWE never compromises on quality. Each batch undergoes rigorous 17-point SOP verification, including:
In 2024 alone, GWE rejected 62 substandard batches worth RM380,000 to uphold its quality promise.
EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS ON THE HORIZON INCLUDE:
● Compostable molded fibre products
● Mono-material packaging to simplify recycling
● Water-based barrier coatings that replace plastic linings
● QR-code enabled packaging for traceability and supply chain transparency
These innovations will not only help GWE meet rising environmental standards but also keep their customers ahead of the regulatory and consumer expectations curve.
than 100,000 views to date. Through this initiative, representatives from the company visit and feature its customers’ eateries using supercars, creating exciting, viral-ready content that helps promote their businesses to a wider audience. This service is offered free of charge as a gesture of appreciation to its loyal customers, reinforcing GWE’s dedication to their growth and visibility.
BUMBLEBEEX: THE NEXT DISRUPTION
Another exciting addition to the GWE ecosystem is BumblebeeX, a food delivery platform set to launch in November 2025. Designed specifically to empower F&B operators, BumblebeeX is a response to the high commission fees charged by dominant delivery apps — fees that erode already thin profit margins for small merchants.
“BumblebeeX is our way of giving
control back to the merchants,” said Isabelle. “The platform will integrate seamlessly with GWE’s packaging and supply services, offering a lowercost, fairer delivery alternative while closing the loop on logistics.”
This initiative aligns with GWE’s bigger mission: to support, not exploit, the F&B operators that form the backbone of Malaysia’s dining and hospitality scene.
PURPOSE BEYOND PROFIT
What makes Goodwill Everest stand out is not just its numbers or products, but its purpose-driven journey. At its heart, GWE isn’t just about packaging. It aims to solve real problems, drive sustainability, and help clients grow. With a finger on the pulse of market trends and a heart rooted in customer service, Goodwill Everest Sdn Bhd is building the future of food packaging, one cup, one box, and one innovation at a time. ■
Understanding SST Changes: What F&B, Rental & Leasing Service
Providers Need to Know
Effective 1 July 2025, Malaysia's updated Sales and Service Tax (SST) framework has introduced significant changes affecting several key sectors, including food and beverage (F&B) businesses and providers of rental and leasing services. These updates are part of the government’s efforts to broaden the tax base and reflect evolving commercial practices. However, the expanded scope of SST is expected to lead to higher operating costs for businesses, which could result in price adjustments that impact consumers as well.
To help address the concerns of MRCA members, the association organised a webinar on 18 July 2025 (Friday) at 4pm, where Mr. Zen Chow (Executive Director and Tax Practice Leader, YYC Group) was invited to speak. In addition, the session was moderated by Ms. Valerie Choo (Vice President/Chief of F&B Division, MRCA) and supported by Datuk Ringo Law (MRCA Legal Advisor, Ringo Law and Associates).
IMPACT ON THE F&B SECTOR
Increased Operating and Input Costs
A key concern among F&B operators is the expansion of service tax to commercial property rentals. Restaurants, cafes, and eateries renting shop lots or commercial premises will now see higher monthly expenses due to the 8% service tax. This cost is compounded by rising prices of raw materials and labour — both of which have already been squeezing margins across the industry.
Furthermore, while essential food items remain tax-exempt, certain premium and imported products such as specific types of seafood and fruits may now fall under the sales tax net. For F&B outlets relying on such ingredients to differentiate their menus, this could mean higher procurement costs.
Pressure on Pricing and Margins
To cope with these financial pressures, many businesses are likely to adjust menu prices. However, competition and customer sensitivity to pricing mean that F&B operators may not be able to fully pass on these increases to consumers. As a result, many outlets are choosing to absorb part of the cost — a move that could significantly erode profit margins, especially for small and independent operators.
Consumer Impact
With increased dining costs, consumers may begin to rethink their spending habits. A potential decline in discretionary spending — such as eating out — could hurt smaller F&B businesses, particularly those located in high-rent urban areas. This shift may accelerate demand for more affordable dining options, meal deals, or home cooking alternatives.
SERVICE TAX DETERMINATION FLOWCHART
New Taxable Service Spanning Before and After 1 July 2025
Apportioned Accordingly
Before and After 1 July 2025 On or After 1 July 2025
Payment Received Before 1 July 2025
Before 1 July 2025 On or After 1 July 2025
Subject to Service Tax
EXPANDED SCOPE FOR RENTAL & LEASING SERVICES
In parallel with the F&B sector, the SST expansion has also made sweeping changes to how rental and leasing services are taxed. These updates are encapsulated under Group K of the First Schedule of the Service Tax Regulations (STR) 2018, and cover a broad range of service providers, including commercial landlords and leasing firms.
Taxable Rental & Leasing Services
Under the revised regulations, the following are now subject to 8% service tax:
● Rental or leasing of commercial property
● Importation of rental or leasing services
● Leasing services bundled with maintenance, repair or additional services
However, financial lease services and rental services for reading materials remain exempt.
Government and Local Authority Exemptions
Service tax will not apply to rental or leasing services provided to the:
● Federal Government
● State Governments
● Local authorities (exempted from 1 July to 30 September 2025)
What You Need to Do: Update Registrations
Service providers previously registered under other service categories (e.g., passenger vehicle rental under Group I) must update their registration to include Group K if they now fall under the new taxable category.
Tax Accounting Obligations
For those benefiting from exemption for subleased services, strict compliance is necessary. If no sublease occurs during a taxable period, the provider must account for the service tax in the SST-02 return and make payment accordingly.
GROUP K: RENTAL OR LEASING
Registration and responsibilities Threshold Calculation
For registration under the Service Tax Act 2018, business must:
Calculate the total value of taxable services provided for:
If the projected taxable value exceeds RM1,000,000, they must:
● Apply for registration by the last day of the following month. 1 2
● The current month + next 11 months (12-month projection).
Effective date of rental or leasing service
01-07-2025
Reached threshold value
01-08-2025
Effective date of registration and imposition of service tax on rental or leasing service
01-09-2025
01-08-2025 – 31-08-2025 Registration Period
Period for calculating the taxable service value
EXEMPTIONS AND RELIEF MEASURES
A Business-toBusiness (B2B) Exemption
B Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) Exemption C Non-Reviewable Contract Exemption D Group Relief
CONCLUSION
Effective 1 July 2025, a B2B exemption applies when:
30-06-2026
● Both the service provider and recipient are registered under Group K.
● The service is the same taxable service.
● The recipient uses the service strictly for subletting or subleasing, not for personal use. If only a portion of the service is subleased, partial exemption applies only to that portion.
To protect smaller businesses, tenants qualifying as micro or small enterprises (annual revenue < RM1 million) are exempt from service tax. To qualify:
● Tenants must register through the MyPMK system.
● They must update their revenue status annually.
● Misdeclarations may lead to recovery of unpaid service tax by RMCD.
Rental or leasing contracts signed and stamped by IRBM on or before 9 June 2025, and without any review or adjustment clause, qualify for a one-year exemption from service tax. These contracts must:
● Be in writing with fixed terms
● Clearly define service type, value, and duration
● Remain valid post-1 July 2025
Group relief is available for intra-group rental or leasing services, provided: The service is delivered between related companies within a corporate group.
Revenue from external parties does not exceed 5% of the total taxable services offered within 12 months.
The SST changes effective 1 July 2025 mark a significant shift in Malaysia’s tax landscape. For F&B businesses, rising costs from property rental taxes and input prices may drive up menu prices and reshape consumer behaviour. For rental and leasing providers, the broadening of Group K regulations introduces new compliance requirements but also offers targeted relief for small businesses and intra-group services.
Business owners are encouraged to review their contracts, update their SST registration, and explore available exemptions to mitigate tax burdens and maintain competitiveness in an increasingly cost-sensitive market.
Sales & Service Tax Updates 2025
Effective 1 July 2025 – Revision & Expansion of SST Scope.
• SALES TAX
1. 0% Sales Tax
(A) Remains 0% for essential daily goods, including:
● Other essentials – Medicine, medical devices, books, journals, newspapers, pet food.
(B) Also applies to:
● Construction materials – Cement, stones, sand.
● Agriculture inputs – Fertilizers, pesticides.
● Machinery – Agricultural and livestock machinery.
2. Rationale
● To avoid direct impact on the cost of living
● Help to control inflation
3. Selected non-essential goods taxed at 5%, includes:
● King crab, salmon, cod
● Truffle mushrooms
● Imported fruits
● Essential oil
● Silk fabrics
● Industrial machinery
4. Premium discretionary goods taxed at 10%, includes:
● Racing bicycles
● Antique hand-painted artworks
5. Sales tax increased from 5% to 10%
● Clocks & Watches
● Camera Lens & filters
SERVICE TAX
Effective 1 July 2025, the Service Tax framework will be further expanded to include additional services as well as introduce 3 new service groups
i.e. Groups K, L and M
A. Group K New Leasing or Rental Services
B. Group L New Construction Works
C. Group H Old Finance
D. Group I Old Healthcare
E. Group M New Education
F. Group C Old Wellness Centre
A. Group K – Leasing or Rental Service
8% Service Tax will be applied to Leasing or Rental Service providers with annual income exceeding RM500,000.
● Exemption includes:
(a) Rentals of:
✓ Residential properties
✓ Reading materials
✓ Financial leases
✓ Tangible assets located outside Malaysia
(b) SMEs with Annual Turnover below < RM500,000
(c) B2B transactions and Group Relief to avoid double taxation
(d) Non-reviewable contracts, granted a 12-month exemption form the effective date
B. Group L – Construction Works 6% Service Tax will be applied to Construction Works provider with annual income exceeding RM1.5 million.
Service Tax applies to any person providing any construction works services.
● “Construction works” mean the construction, extension, installation, repair, renewal, removal, renovation, alteration, dismantling, demolition of, or facility maintenance in the construction works period:
(a) any building, erection, edifice, structure, wall, fence or chimney, whether constructed wholly or partly above or below ground level;
(b) any road, harbor works, railway, cableway, canal or aerodrome;
(c) any drainage, irrigation or river control works;
(d) any electrical, mechanical, petrochemical or telecommunication works;
(e) any gasworks or waterworks; or
(f) any bridge, viaduct, dam, reservoir, earthworks, pipeline, sewer, aqueduct, culvert, drive, shaft, tunnel or reclamation works.
which includes any works which form an important and integral part of or are preparatory to or temporary for the works specified in paragraphs (a) to (f).
● Special measures / exemptions include:
✓ Higher threshold of RM 1.5 million to ease compliance for smaller contractors
✓ Exemption for services related to residential buildings and public amenities
✓ B2B transactions are exempted to prevent double taxation
✓ Non-reviewable contractors are granted a 12-month exemption from the effective date
C. Group H - Finance
8% Service Tax will be applied for Fee or Commission-based services.
● Exemptions include:
✓ Basic financial services:
I. Basic banking
II. Interest based or profit based Islamic financing
✓ Specific financial transactions:
I. Foreign exchange
II. Capital market gains
III. Punitive charges
IV. Export – linked financing
V. Fees to overseas remittance agents for inbound transfers
VI. Brokage / underwriting for life, medical, and family takaful / insurance
✓ Other exemptions:
I. B2B transactions
II. Shariah compliant services
III. Services provided for Bursa Malaysia and Labuan
D. Group I - Healthcare
6% Service Tax will be applied for non-citizens using private healthcare, traditional and complementary medicine, allied health and companies with annual turnover exceeding RM1.5 million
Service Tax applies to services provided by:
1. Any person who operates or provides a private healthcare facility registered or licensed under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998. However, this excludes those under a university or university colleges registered under the University and University Colleges Act 1971 [Act 30] or the Universiti Teknologi MARA Axt 1976 [Act 173], as well as certain private healthcare facilities.
2. Any person who operates or provides a place for the practice of private traditional and complementary medicine services excluding private healthcare facility under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998.
Continued on next page
3. Any person who operates or provides a place for the activity relating to private allied health services excluding private healthcare facilities under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998, which includes services such as audiology, dietic physiotherapy, nutrition, environmental health, or health education, amongst others.
● Exemptions include:
✓ Exemption for Malaysians receiving:
I. Public and private healthcare
II. Traditional medicine (Malay, Chinese, Indian, Islamic)
III. Homeopathy, chiropractic, osteopathy
✓ Exemption for allied (e.g., physiotherapy, audiology, speech therapy) to reduce costs and improve access
✓ Reduced 6% applies only to non-citizens
✓ RM1.5 million threshold to ease compliance for small and medium sized clinics.
E. Group M – Education
6% Service Tax will be applied for education services with annual fees exceeding RM60,000 per student in private pre-school, primary and secondary education and for non-citizens in higher education institutions.
Service Tax applies to services provided by:
1. Any private educational institution registered under the Education Act 1996 – excluding special school and language centre:
● Provision of pre-school, primary school, lower secondary, upper secondary or post-secondary education services which imposes fees exceeding RM60,000 per student per academic year.
2. Any public or private higher education institution registered under the prescribed act providing education-related services to a non-citizen.
3. Any Language centre registered under the Education Act 1996 providing education-related services to a non-citizen.
● Exemptions include:
✓ Malaysian citizens with disabilities will be exempt
✓ Malaysian citizens pursuing higher education
F.
Group C – Wellness Centre
8% Service Tax will be applied for those exceeding RM500,000 taxable services over 12 months applies to services provided by:
1. A “Wellness Centre”, which includes:
(a) any treatment on any part of the body using any substance or equipment including aromatherapy, acupuncture, reflexology or cupping
(b) any care or treatment for postnatal mother and infant
(c) wellness care for the elderly
2. Massage parlors
● Other examples specified by the MoF include beauty-related services such as facial treatments, hairdressing, manicures and pedicures, tattooing, makeup and grooming, slimming treatments, as well as spa and bath services.
For more information, please contact the following at McMillan Woods:
Tan Sri Dr. Shukor • Dato’ Seri Dr Raymond Liew +012-382 1768 • Jason Boey +6012-628 0110
Office General Line: +603-7665 1738 • Email address: info@ mcmillanwoods.com
Disclaimer: The information herein is simplified for brevity. Kindly seek case-specific consultation prior to any action. The write-up may contain our interpretation, to which the authorities and Courts may not necessarily concur. Strictly no liability is assumed.
The Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM/LHDN) has published multiple significant updates in relation to stamp duty and implementation of e-Invoicing.
STAMP DUTY RELIEF FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS
The Ministry of Finance has granted a relief from stamp duty payments for any employment entered prior to 1 January 2025. The announcement is silent on other instruments such as service agreements including intragroup service agreements. Taxpayers should review the position with regards to such agreements considering the higher scrutiny by the IRBM on stamp duty matters in recent times.
For employment agreements entered into during the calendar year 2025, a grace period is granted until 31 December 2025 for stamping purposes. Given that multiple documentation may exist in relation to an employment (e.g. annual increment letters), businesses should carefully assess the impact of each of these documents pursuant to Stamp Act 1949.
A comprehensive compliance review – not confined to only employment agreements – is advisable given the legislative changes to implement SelfAssessment for Stamp Duty effective from 1 January 2026.
LIMITATION ON PERMISSIBILITY OF CONSOLIDATED E-INVOICE
Consolidated e-Invoice is a simpler mechanism compared to a
transaction-specific e-Invoice as Buyer’s data does not have to be collected and reported to IRBM for the purposes of consolidated e-Invoice.
On 5 June 2025, a new restriction has been introduced whereby consolidated e-Invoice is not permitted for any transaction with value exceeding RM10,000. This restriction takes effect from 1 January 2026.
For transactions up to 31 December 2025, consolidated e-Invoice is permitted even for transactions with value exceeding RM10,000 (except for specified transactions for transaction-specific e-Invoice is mandatory – this includes sale of motor vehicles, flight tickets, private charter (in relation to aviation), construction and construction materials).
E-INVOICING DEFERRAL & EXEMPTION
The annual revenue threshold blanket exemption for micro and small businesses is increased from RM150,000 to RM500,000. This exemption applies to both incorporated businesses and unincorporated businesses. With this regard, businesses making payments to individuals should be diligent in determining whether or not the payee is carrying on the business. Should the payee be an individual who is not carrying on a business, the payer is obliged to issue a Self-Billed e-Invoice (SBeI) on such payment regardless of his/her annual income level.
Further, the implementation timeline for businesses with annual revenue not exceeding RM5 million is deferred by 6 months.
Members Convene For A Strategic Evening
On Wednesday, 28 May 2025, members of MRCA gathered for the latest Members Meeting, held at the stylish Avenue25 Sales Gallery. The event drew a strong turnout from the MRCA community, who came together for an engaging evening of updates, discussions, and networking.
The session, which lasted for an hour and a half, opened with registration and light refreshments in the early evening. As members gathered around with refreshments, it was an
excellent opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and welcome new participants into the fold, reinforcing MRCA’s role as a unifying force within Malaysia’s retail sector.
The meeting featured timely updates on association initiatives, upcoming programmes, and key developments affecting the retail landscape. The MRCA leadership also shared progress on ongoing projects and invited feedback from members, encouraging open dialogue and collaboration.
Beyond the formal agenda, the event provided a valuable platform
for members to share insights, explore potential partnerships, and strengthen their ties within the association. The relaxed yet professional setting at Avenue25 created the ideal atmosphere for both strategic conversations and social connection.
With every Members Meeting, MRCA continues to build a strong and engaged network that champions the collective growth of Malaysia’s retail industry. The May 2025 edition was no exception— delivering a productive session that reflected the energy, ambition, and unity of its members. ■
Driving Digital Transformation: MDEC Business Digitalisation Workshop Empowers Retailers and SMEs
The MDEC Business Digitalisation Workshop was held at the Vertical Business Suites in Bangsar South on 12 June 2025. It brought together industry leaders and innovators to share digital tools and strategies aimed at transforming businesses for a digital-first future. Facilitated by Carol Fung of MDEC, the event featured three impactful presentations from Boost Digital, BytePlus and Mampu AI (Dataverse), each offering unique insights into enhancing retail efficiency, leveraging AI, and elevating customer engagement.
BOOST: A FULL-SPECTRUM FINTECH PLATFORM EMPOWERING RETAIL GROWTH
Representing Boost Digital, Puteri Indah Binti Mohd Idrus showcased how Boost, the fintech arm of Axiata, offers a comprehensive range of financial services tailored for both consumers and businesses. With over 11.1 million e-wallet users and 660,000 merchants onboard, Boost has firmly established itself as a key enabler in Malaysia’s digital economy.
In 2024 alone, Boost achieved RM15.6 billion in Gross Transaction Value (GTV) and disbursed RM5 billion in loans, highlighting its credibility and scale. Their solutions include in-store payments, DuitNow
BOOST OPERATES ACROSS FIVE PILLARS:
● Boost Life (consumer payments)
● Boost Bank (consumer and SME banking)
● Boost Connect (payment service provider)
● Boost Credit (digital financing)
● Boost Indonesia (expansion of digital financing in the region)
QR, mobile POS, and innovative offerings such as PayFlex, SME lending, and digital merchant wallets. With real-time business dashboards, fast settlement processes, and diverse payment acceptance methods, including e-Wallets, QR payments, online banking and credit/debit cards,
Boost continues to drive retail digitisation with speed and reliability.
BYTEPLUS: POWERING INNOVATION WITH SCALABLE AI MODELS
Ivan Tan, representing BytePlus, an enterprise arm of ByteDance, emphasised the growing impact of Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI applications in business. Built on a secure and scalable infrastructure, BytePlus provides tools for intelligent insights and an integrated digital ecosystem tailored to drive enterprise success.
Key insights shared, including the AI application market is expected to maintain tenfold growth in 2025, with trends pointing toward multimodal capabilities, reasoning and autonomous agents.
BytePlus tackled common challenges in AI implementation, such as model effectiveness, inference cost, and deployment complexity, by introducing highperformance, cost-effective, and easy-to-deploy platforms.
Ivan also introduced Skylark Pro, an advanced LLM capable of creating dynamic characters and context-aware responses, which is ideal for use in games, customer interaction and virtual assistants. Meanwhile, Skylark Lite offers costeffective applications in advertising and conversational AI.
The DeepSeek-R1 series, including the DeepSeek-R1-DistillQwen-32B, was highlighted for its exceptional performance across math, code and reasoning tasks, even surpassing OpenAI’s mini models. With a MIT License allowing commercial use and modification, BytePlus empowers enterprises to build tailored AI solutions at scale.
MAMPU AI: SMART AI FOR CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT
Eric Lim from Dataverse, a Malaysian AI company founded in 2022, presented Mampu AI, a customer-centric platform designed to transform how businesses interact with their clients. Mampu AI specialises in creating custom AI agents that handle FAQs, promote products and book appointments, and it does all this while collecting valuable customer data securely.
Highlighted features include:
● Smart routing of customers to the nearest branches or agents based on location.
● Automated appointment booking, with confirmation and reminders sent via email or SMS.
● Feedback collection and event reminders, enhancing engagement before and after events.
● Facebook Live integration, allowing businesses to engage in real-time and follow up directly via private messaging.
This tailored approach to automation not only streamlines business operations but also ensures a personalised, responsive, and engaging customer experience.
UNLOCKING THE POWER OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
The MDEC Business Digitalisation Workshop reinforced the importance of adopting cuttingedge digital tools for business sustainability and growth. From Boost’s powerful fintech ecosystem, BytePlus’s scalable AI infrastructure, to Dataverse’s hands-on AI solutions—each presentation equipped attendees with actionable insights to digitise, automate and scale effectively. With MDEC leading the charge in digital empowerment, Malaysian retailers and SMEs are wellpositioned to thrive in a tech-driven future. ■
Boosting Retail Competitiveness Through Affiliates and Smart Payments
In today’s highly competitive retail landscape, businesses must adopt agile and cost-effective strategies to stay ahead. Recognising the growing importance of affiliate marketing, MRCA organised a seminar titled “Boosting Retail Competitiveness Through Affiliates and Smart Payments” on 15 July 2025 at Colony, KL Eco City. Hosted by MRCA’s Digital Pillar, the event explored how businesses can leverage affiliate platforms and data-driven insights to drive growth.
WINNING IN THE AFFILIATE ECONOMY
Affiliate marketing, a performancebased approach where affiliates earn commissions for generating sales or leads, is gaining traction across industries, from fashion to travel.
Ms. Ooi Weiying, Integrated Marketing Manager at Taobao, emphasised that affiliate strategies broaden brand reach and cultivate social-led ecosystems that drive awareness.
“What makes ShopBack really special is its strong local presence. I would say ShopBack has built strong consumer trust and is highly performance-driven, consistently delivering during our campaigns. This aligns well with Taobao’s growth goals in Malaysia as well,” said Weiying.
Uniqlo’s Performance Marketing Specialist, Ms. Nazierah, highlighted affiliate marketing’s impact during major online shopping days, while Jaiya from Trip.com pointed out its unmatched cost-effectiveness and ability to target specific customer segments.
“To grow your market share, you need to grow your new
customer base as well. Previously, affiliate partners were more focused on the conversion stage of the marketing funnel. Now, we’re seeing affiliate partners offering solutions for reach and traffic objectives too. It’s really interesting to see how we can now leverage affiliates across the entire marketing funnel,” said Nazierah.
“I think affiliate marketing is the most cost-effective channel we have, as it targets the right user segments while delivering the best ROI in the market. That’s how we’re positioning affiliate marketing,” said Jaiya from Trip.com.
Speakers also noted the shift from traditional coupon platforms to a more diverse affiliate ecosystem that includes cashback sites, loyalty platforms, and influencer networks. Jaiya observed that even super apps and e-Wallet providers are now exploring affiliate integrations to enhance content and reach.
Nazierah added that affiliates are no longer confined to conversions but are now contributing across the full marketing funnel, from awareness to traffic generation.
The panel also discussed strategies for tapping into new market segments. For instance, Trip.com segments its affiliate strategies by market maturity, tailoring campaigns for emerging and mature markets to optimise user acquisition and bookings. For Taobao, partnerships with Shopee and ShopBack have amplified its local reach, especially following the launch of its Bahasa Melayu interface.
FIRESIDE CHAT: THE OMNICHANNEL OPPORTUNITY
Omnichannel is a business approach aimed at delivering a smooth, unified customer experience across all touchpoints, whether online or in physical locations. It ensures consistent branding and personalised interactions, no matter which platform or method a customer uses to connect with the business. Unlike multichannel strategies, where each channel might function separately, omnichannel prioritises integration and continuity across all channels.
This fireside chat explored how brands integrate omnichannel strategies with affiliate platforms. Applecrumby’s Stanley Wong shared how early customer education improved the app-based journey and drove campaign success. Juice Works’ Bin Chuin stressed the need for seamless backend integration and internal alignment to execute affiliate promotions effectively, especially in the offline space.
Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) shared a compelling case for digital synergy. “66% of our target audience for moviegoers are actually below 35 years old. So they’re all digital natives. They’re very familiar with the online consumer journey,” said Linda Lee, Senior Manager, PR & Branding at GSC.
With over 4.5 million active app users, GSC capitalised on its digitally native audience to drive instant gratification campaigns via ShopBack, reinforcing customer engagement and loyalty. “Our followers love instant rewards, and platforms like ShopBack meet those expectations,” said Linda. She added that the company saw success in driving new customer acquisition through drink promotions, with repeat visits post-campaign.
The seminar concluded with a
strong message: affiliate marketing is no longer a niche tactic but a strategic lever for growth. When integrated with smart payment systems and data insights, affiliate marketing delivers measurable ROI and long-term customer value.
As competition intensifies and consumer behaviour evolves, affiliate marketing, backed by real-
time data, predictive analytics, and omnichannel engagement, offers a scalable and cost-effective way for retailers to thrive. With platforms like ShopBack and CleverTap enabling seamless integrations and performance tracking, the future of retail lies in partnerships that combine technology, trust and customer-centric strategies. ■
Joyous Bon Odori Celebration In Sunway City
Sunway City Kuala Lumpur came alive on July 12-13 as the 49th Bon Odori 2025 festival brought together vibrant Japanese traditions, joyful community spirit and cultural exchange in a weekend to remember.
ALL THINGS JAPANESE
Sunway City Kuala Lumpur came alive on July 12-13 as the 49th Bon Odori 2025 festival brought together vibrant Japanese traditions, joyful community spirit and cultural exchange in a weekend to remember
Sunway City Kuala Lumpur was transformed into a vibrant cultural stage on July 12-13 as the 49th Bon Odori 2025 welcomed thousands to a weekend celebration of Japanese heritage, music, dance, and food.
Organised by the Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur, in partnership with the Embassy of Japan, the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur and Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, the two-day festival lived up to its reputation as one of Malaysia’s most anticipated and colourful cultural events.
This year’s Bon Odori marked nearly five decades of cross-cultural appreciation and friendship between Japan and Malaysia.
Originally launched in 1977 as a modest community event for Japanese expatriates, the festival has since blossomed into a nationwide attraction, drawing locals, tourists and Japanophiles of all ages.
Throughout the weekend, festivalgoers were treated to the soul-stirring beats of traditional taiko drum performances, the graceful energy of Bon Odori dances and a bustling festival marketplace featuring more than 100 booths.
Curated in collaboration with Pingmin Market, the marketplace offered a diverse array of Japaneseinspired crafts, handmade items and a mouth-watering range of halal and non-halal food options – making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Held at the open-air carpark beside Sunway Resort, the event venue was abuzz with lanternlit walkways, music echoing through the evening air and the
unmistakable aroma of Japanese street food.
Crowds circled the yagura (drum tower) in joyous unison during the Bon Odori dance, a tradition symbolising community, remembrance and shared rhythm.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE
Adding a local flavour to the experience were special performances by Tourism Selangor, Majlis Bandaraya Subang Jaya (MBSJ) and Sunway Lagoon, showcasing Malaysia’s multicultural spirit alongside Japan’s timeless traditions.
“The 49th Bon Odori is more than just a cultural festival. It’s a living symbol of the strong ties and mutual respect between our two nations,” said a spokesperson from The Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur.
“We are proud to see the Malaysian community embrace the spirit of Bon Odori year after year.”
TOURISM DRIVER
More than just a celebration, the festival also served as a significant tourism driver, enhancing Malaysia’s standing as a regional hub for cultural events.
Supported by Tourism Selangor, The Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry Malaysia, and Polis Diraja Malaysia, the event boosted local tourism and brought communities together in the heart of Sunway.
Accessibility was a major highlight, with seamless public transport options via the BRT, LRT, and KTM lines, as well as support from AirAsia Ride for a smooth e-H ailing experience.
Ample parking at Sunway Pyramid, The Pinnacle, Menara Sunway and other nearby landmarks made it easy for families, couples and groups of friends to join the festivities.
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From yukata-clad dancers to curious first-timers, the 49th Bon Odori 2025 was a celebration for all, uniting people across cultures through joy, dance and shared appreciation of heritage.
As the lanterns dimmed and the drums fell silent at the end of the weekend, one thing was certain: the spirit of Bon Odori continues to thrive in Malaysia. ■
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KLWC, KLIH Forge Strategic Alliance with China
The historic partnership with Boao LeCheng Medical Tourism Pilot Zone marks a first for Malaysia and sets the stage for cross-border collaboration in medical tourism and innovation.
In a landmark move set to reshape the regional medical tourism and healthcare innovation landscape, KL Wellness City (KLWC) and KL International Hospital (KLIH) signed a Healthcare Strategic Cooperation Agreement with the Boao LeCheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone in Hainan Free Trade Port, China, early July.
This signing marks the firstever partnership between Boao LeCheng and a Malaysian hospital, establishing a powerful bridge
between two leading medical tourism and wellness destinations in Asia.
The agreement was signed by KLWC Managing Director Dato’ Dr Colin Lee and KLIH Executive Director Dato’ Dr Jacob Thomas, and Lecheng Administration Deputy Director Yi Tuoxin.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Lecheng Administration Party Secretary and CPC Qionghai Municipal Committee Secretary Zhou Changqiang, and Lecheng Administration Director Fu
Sheng, KLWC Director Datin Karen Pua and KLWC Executive Director Dato’ Sri Dr Vincent Tiew.
NEW CHAPTER
The important event marked a milestone in cross-border medical collaboration and signified a crucial step forward in realising a healthier and more closely connected Asia.
“It underscored the shared commitment of both parties to improving health outcomes, driving medical innovation, and benefiting patients in both countries,” said
The agreement was officially signed by Dato’ Dr. Colin Lee, Managing Director of KL Wellness City and Dato’ Dr Jacob Thomas, Executive Director of KL International Hospital, and Yi Tuoxin, Deputy Director of the Lecheng Administration. The signing ceremony was jointly witnessed by Zhou Changqiang, Secretary of the CPC Qionghai Municipal Committee and Party Secretary of the Lecheng Administration; Fu Sheng, Director of the Lecheng Administration; Datin Karen Pua, Director of KL Wellness City Sdn Bhd and Dato’ Sri Dr. Vincent Tiew, Executive Director of KL Wellness City Sdn Bhd.
KLWC Managing Director Dato’ Dr Colin Lee.
“I hope this agreement will serve as a starting point for establishing a long-term cooperation mechanism and jointly write a new chapter in international healthcare collaboration.”
MILESTONE COLLABORATION
The strategic collaboration encompasses joint initiatives in medical tourism, clinical research, cutting-edge technology exchange and specialist training, further propelling KLWC’s mission to position Malaysia as a regional hub for integrative healthcare and wellness.
A significant moment for KLWC, the collaboration with Boao LeCheng International marks an important milestone in bringing global healthcare innovation to Malaysia.
“The partnership also commemorates 50 years of ChinaMalaysia partnership and friendship. We are honoured to serve as the gateway for Boao LeCheng into Malaysia and the greater Southeast Asian region,” said Dato’ Sri Dr Vincent Tiew.
HEALTHCARE MODEL ZONE
Boao LeCheng, located within the Hainan Free Trade Port, is internationally recognised for its access to advanced medical
technologies, expedited approval pathways for novel treatments and as a model zone for global healthcare innovation.
The 9km sq international medical innovation hub is China’s only national-level medical tourism zone, and is directly supported by the President and the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
It is equipped with worldclass healthcare facilities and is a fast-track access to cutting-edge treatments and pharmaceuticals not yet available elsewhere in China.
There are 36 operational medical institutions in Boao LeCheng, with over 20 more under construction or in the pipeline. Fu Sheng noted that KLWC and KLIH bring valuable expertise in healthcare operations and international medical services to the partnership.
WORLD-CLASS FACILITY
KLWC is Southeast Asia’s first fully integrated 26.5-acre township in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, dedicated to health and wellness, where medical, residential, commercial and leisure components are purpose-built to foster a holistic and sustainable lifestyle.
Anchored by the International Tertiary Hospital and complemented by wellness suites, retirement resorts, research centres and fitness-focused infrastructure, KLWC redefines how communities live, heal and thrive.
The KLIH, meanwhile, will be a world-class tertiary hospital approved for 624 beds, scalable to 1,000 beds.
The hospital will house 76 critical care beds, 88 high-dependency units and 25 state-of-the-art operating theatres, equipped with the latest in smart hospital infrastructure and advanced medical equipment.
KLIH is targeted to open in the second half of next year, offering a comprehensive suite of specialist and sub-specialist services to local and international patients.
MEANINGFUL PARTNERSHIP
Lecheng Administration and representatives from KLWC and KLIH exchanged insights on strengthening collaboration in international healthcare.
“KL Wellness City is honoured to represent Malaysia in this historical collaboration,” said Dato’ Dr Colin Lee.
“This partnership paves the way for a dynamic healthcare corridor that enables quicker access to breakthrough treatments, strengthens specialist expertise and builds mutual trust between both nations. It is a meaningful milestone in our shared pursuit of healthcare advancement,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dato’ Dr Jacob Thomas said formalising ties with Boao LeCheng International reinforces the vision of integrating global medical innovations into Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem.
“We are optimistic about the transformative impact this partnership will bring to the region’s healthcare landscape,” he said.
The agreement reaffirms KLWC’s standing as Southeast Asia’s first purpose-built township for health and wellness, and Boao LeCheng International’s commitment to forging meaningful global partnerships for patient care advancement. ■
Lecheng Administration and representatives from KL Wellness City and KL International Hospital exchanged insights on strengthening collaboration in international healthcare.
Future-Proofing Retail: Gen AI And Cybersecurity Take Centre Stage
In May 2025, MRCA, in collaboration with Microsoft and GLOCOMP, successfully hosted a pivotal event titled “Future Proof Your Retail Business: Generative AI & Cybersecurity.” Held at the prestigious Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, the event was part of MRCA’s Digital Pillar initiative and attracted a strong turnout of retail executives, technology leaders, and cybersecurity professionals from across the industry.
The evening began with opening remarks by Datuk Dr. Ken Phua, President of MRCA, followed by a welcome address from Lim
Ben Jie, the Head of Digital Pillar and organising chairperson. Both speakers underscored the importance of embracing digital transformation to ensure business sustainability and resilience in an era of accelerated technological change.
The programme officially kicked off with a keynote session titled “The Rise of Generative AI & Cybersecurity in Retail.” The presentation explored how artificial intelligence is revolutionising retail— from enhancing customer experience and streamlining operations to fortifying digital infrastructures against growing cyber threats.
Participants were then
introduced to a solution showcase titled “Make it Real!” which featured real-world customer use cases and live demonstrations of generative AI tools in action. These showcased how leading retailers are already leveraging AI to personalise shopper interactions, predict demand, and automate backend systems with impressive results.
A highlight of the evening was the engaging fireside chat, “Retail Resilience in the Gen AI Era –Innovation, Trust & Transformation Insights.” Industry experts shared their thoughts on navigating innovation while preserving customer trust, highlighting the
role of governance, responsible deployment, and the cultural shift needed to adopt AI meaningfully.
Two distinguished speakers from Microsoft led the key discussions of the evening. Boon Sing Lee, Senior Solution Sales Lead for Azure, spoke about the potential of scalable cloud technologies in supporting retail growth. Meanwhile, Melissa Shen, Senior Solutions Sales Lead for Security, offered valuable perspectives on embedding cybersecurity best practices within AI adoption strategies.
The session “How to Get Started” provided attendees with practical guidance on initiating their GenAI journey. The segment addressed critical steps businesses could take to assess readiness, secure available government support and grants, and ensure that implementation strategies were aligned with industry regulations and ethical standards.
The event concluded with a token of appreciation presentation, followed by a networking
dinner. This gave attendees the opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and build strategic relationships in an informal setting.
Backed by corporate patrons Maxis Business and RHB, the event delivered on its promise to educate, inspire, and equip retailers for a digital-first future. By placing the spotlight on both generative AI and cybersecurity, MRCA reaffirmed its role as a thought leader in advancing the capabilities of Malaysia’s retail ecosystem. ■
Back-to-Back Win for Yayasan MR.D.I.Y.
Yayasan MR.D.I.Y. clinches the Foundation of the Year award for the second year in a row. It was recognised for its leadership in community care.
The philanthropic arm of MR.D.I.Y. Group (M) Bhd has been awarded the Foundation of the Year (Home Improvement Retailer) –Community Care Leadership Award at the recent Sustainability and CSR Malaysia Awards 2025.
This marks the second consecutive year Yayasan MR.D.I.Y. has received the prestigious ‘Foundation of the Year’ title. In 2024, the Foundation was honoured for its Outstanding Community Spirit.
Organised by CSR Malaysia under Pertubuhan Amal Tanggungjawab Kemapanan dan Korporat Malaysia,
the annual awards recognise Malaysian organisations that demonstrate leadership in driving social, economic and environmental progress.
CLEAR WINNER
Winners are selected by a panel of esteemed judges from both corporate and social sectors, based on clear CSR goals, measurable impact, consistency, transparency, creativity, team capability and sincerity of efforts.
Held on 17 July 2025 at Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, the awards were presented by the Women, Family and Community
Development Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad. Yayasan MR.D.I.Y. CEO Zaleha Mohd Mydin said the award is a testament to the dedication and compassion of every member of Yayasan MR.D.I.Y. and the MR.D.I.Y. Group, as it reflects the shared commitment to serving communities with integrity, compassion and purpose.
“Thank you to the CSR Malaysia Awards organising committee and judges, and to the MR.D.I.Y. Group for their unwavering trust and support,” she said.
“We are deeply honoured by this recognition and remain focused on expanding our efforts to uplift more lives and create lasting, positive change, for a better tomorrow and a better Malaysia.”
REAL IMPACT
Established in June 2023, Yayasan MR.D.I.Y. leads the MR.D.I.Y. Group’s community impact initiatives. In 2024, the Foundation implemented a diverse range of programmes that positively impacted over 95,000 individuals across Malaysia.
The Foundation is committed to expanding its reach and driving sustainable development that benefits communities nationwide.
To know more about Yayasan MR.D.I.Y.’s sustainability and corporate social responsibility programmes, visit MR.D.I.Y.’s website, www.mrdiy.com, or social media on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. ■
CSR Malaysia Chairman Dato R Rajendran (left); Yayasan MR.D.I.Y. Board of Trustees Dato Seri CP Loo (middle) receives the award from Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad (second from left); Zaleha Mohd Mydin (second from right) and CSR Malaysia Co-Chairman and Managing Editor Lee Seng Chee (right).
From Concept To Commerce: Turning Retail Ideas Into Impact
Concepts like endless aisle, phygital, and connected commerce reflect how retail is being reshaped across every touchpoint.
Customers expect to browse online, buy instore, return through an app, and experience consistent engagement at every step. These evolving expectations have been redefining how retailers manage everything from supply chains to in-store operations.
Retailers can’t rely on disconnected systems or siloed strategies. They need end-to-end visibility and control across the entire value chain — from inventory and order management to last-mile delivery and postpurchase experience. Agility, scalability, and integration are now critical to both customer satisfaction and operational excellence.
Anchanto’s enterprise-grade SaaS platforms form the digital backbone that powers modern retail strategies. Whether enabling extended product visibility
in stores or orchestrating seamless omnichannel fulfilment, our solutions turn complex challenges into competitive advantages.
What once felt like distant trends are now everyday expectations. The retailers that thrive will be those who build connected, resilient operations — and embrace the technology that drives them forward. ■
A New Chapter for Mall of Malaysia Group
Mall of Malaysia Group is at the forefront of redefining the retail shopping experience across Malaysia’s burgeoning cities.
With a portfolio of seven landmark shopping malls, encompassing over 3 million square feet of net lettable area, the group has dedicated more than two decades to pioneering retail destinations in thriving second-tier urban centres. Their strategic focus is on catering to communities characterised by a growing population and strong mid-to-upper household incomes.
Each of its malls—KB Mall, Alor Star Mall, Batu Pahat Mall, SB Mall, Taiping Mall, KTCC Mall, and Mentakab Mall—is centrally located within its respective city’s business hub, delivering on the group’s promise of being “Your One-Stop Shopping Mall” destination.
The group offers a comprehensive and diverse range of offerings, from international fashion labels and esteemed local brands to an eclectic mix of dining options, urban grocers, lifestyle outlets, cinemas, and
family entertainment, ensuring there is something for every visitor.
By seamlessly blending variety, quality, and convenience, the Mall of Malaysia Group brings the excitement of premier city shopping closer to home. They are committed to creating vibrant community hubs where people can shop, dine, play, and connect with one another.
GINTELL: Bringing Premium Wellness Solutions
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SAUCE EMPIRE: ELEVATING FLAVOURS ACROSS CUISINES
Established in 2000, Sauce Empire Manufacturing Sdn Bhd has grown into a trusted name in the food service industry, supplying high-quality cooking pastes and sauces to businesses across Malaysia and beyond. With a diverse portfolio of over 200 varieties, Sauce Empire caters to a wide range of culinary traditions, including Local Malaysian, Chinese, Western, Japanese, Korean, and vegetarian cuisines.
What sets Sauce Empire apart is its expertise in customised formulations, private labelling, and contract
● Optimize Space: Free up valuable warehouse and retail space.
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In one success story, an electronics retailer converted RM300,000 worth of idle stock into working capital.
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manufacturing, offering tailored solutions to meet each client’s unique needs. Whether it is developing a signature sauce or ensuring consistent supply, the company prides itself on delivering flavour, quality, and reliability.
Driven by innovation and a passion for taste, Sauce Empire continues to enhance culinary experiences across restaurants, catering services, and food manufacturers. With every bottle, they deliver more than just sauce— they deliver a trusted partner in the kitchen.
BIG APPLE GROWS FROM HUMBLE ROOTS TO NATIONWIDE PRESENCE
Established in 1993, Big Apple has grown from a modest two-room apartment in Ipoh into a leading name in early childhood education. Under the leadership of CEO Kingsley Ting, the company now operates 43 centers, 15 self-owned and 28 licensed centres across nine states, serving around 3,000 students.
Big Apple places a strong emphasis on talent development. The company conducts regular training workshops, fosters partnerships with universities, and offers clear career advancement pathways for its educators.
PRIORITY DYNAMICS: TURNING CUSTOMER INSIGHTS INTO IMPACT
In today’s fast-paced digital world, customers expect brands to understand them, communicate clearly, and deliver real value, without wasting time. That is where Priority Dynamics steps in.
The company helps marketing teams become more agile, targeted, and contextual in monetising customer engagement. Its consultancy focuses on transforming customer insights into personalised strategies that resonate with consumer expectations.
With a commitment to quality education and professional growth, Big Apple continues to shape young minds while nurturing the talents of its educators, solidifying its position as a trusted name in Malaysia’s early education landscape.
Working closely with your team, Priority Dynamics decodes data, integrates predictive analytics, and designs smarter campaigns that deliver measurable results, from customer acquisition to long-term retention. With access to context-rich data from over 20 million Malaysians, its clients can track shifting consumer behaviour without relying on traditional surveys.
As a partner of CleverTap, Priority Dynamics operationalises real-time insights to create seamless omnichannel engagement strategies.
If you’re ready to shift the way you think about customer engagement and drive meaningful business outcomes, let’s build it together with Priority Dynamics.
Focus Point’s 2024 Performance: A Year of Strong Growth, Strategic Expansion, and Sustainable Vision
As Focus Point celebrates its 36th anniversary, the brand continues to assert its leadership in Malaysia’s optical retail industry. With a firm grip on its core business, a breakthrough in its food and beverage (F&B) segment, and a growing focus on sustainability and innovation, 2024 has proven to be another milestone year.
CONSISTENT FINANCIAL STRENGTH
For the third consecutive year, Focus Point has reported revenue exceeding RM200 million and profit after tax above RM30 million. This consistent performance highlights the company’s robust business model and disciplined cost management. With healthy profit margins across its operations, the company continues to deliver value to shareholders. In fact, 2024 marked its highest-ever dividend payout of RM16.2 million, which is a testament to its financial prudence and long-term vision.
A TURNAROUND IN F&B
One of the most significant achievements in 2024 was the turnaround of Focus Point’s F&B business. Initiated in 2012, the segment struggled with losses for years. However, this year, the F&B division not only broke even but recorded a top-line revenue of RM43 million, which is its highest to date.
Though the profit margin is still modest, the business has entered a
new growth phase. With increasing operational efficiency aided by semi-automated equipment from Japan and a well-trained workforce, the company is positioning its central kitchen to scale up. Currently underutilised, the facility has the potential to increase output by 30% to 40%.
Discussions are also underway with major supermarket chains like Village Grocer and popular cafés to supply F&B products, targeting a steady expansion in B2B sales, which the company views as a more scalable and manageable business model compared to B2C.
OPTICAL SEGMENT: A RECESSION-PROOF CORE
The optical business remains Focus Point’s cornerstone, accounting for a majority of its revenue and profitability. With prescription
glasses contributing approximately 50%, contact lenses 18%, and sunglasses 20%, the company maintains a strong portfolio. Prescription glasses yield the highest margins, while disposable contact lenses offer recurring revenue opportunities.
Focus Point is also adapting to changing market demands by promoting daily lenses, especially for hygiene-conscious consumers. Working in collaboration with leading brands, the company is expanding its offerings to serve its customers better. Specialty lenses such as toric and multifocal lenses are gaining more and more prominence, which is a boon for consumers who can capitalise on advancements in vision correction technology to improve their quality of life.
Moreover, the brand is deeply invested in myopia management,
a growing concern especially among children, and is working with top global lens suppliers to address this. The ageing population in Malaysia also presents opportunities, as the need for reading glasses continues to rise.
INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
In 2024, Focus Point reinforced its position as a tech-savvy brand with the launch of SOLOS smartglasses, which is a cutting-edge wearable integrated with AI features. It can help to monitor your posture and exercise routine, and provide you with feedback with the aid of a 9-axis censor and SOLOS AirGo™ App, among other perks. Focus Point is the exclusive distributor for this China-based brand in Malaysia, and the product is now available in 8 outlets, with plans to expand further.
This move signifies the company’s transformation from a traditional eyewear retailer to a purveyor of lifestyle and tech-integrated eyewear solutions.
Furthermore, the brand has enhanced its primary eye care services with over 100 outlets now equipped with state-of-theart diagnostic equipment, including AI fundus scanning tools. This strategic investment sets Focus Point apart from competitors and aligns with its commitment to value-added services.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF WHOOSH
Focus Point’s house brand, WHOOSH, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Known for trendy, affordable eyewear, WHOOSH currently offers a Buy 1 Free 1 campaign aimed at encouraging customers to shop with friends and family. This reinforces its positioning as a stylish, accessible brand for the masses.
SUSTAINABILITY AS A CORE VALUE
Sustainability has become a central theme for Focus Point. In 2024, the company released a comprehensive 40-page sustainability statement detailing its sustainability efforts, including reducing its environmental impact. Initiatives include eliminating plastic bags, removing bottled water from stores and headquarters, and encouraging recycling across its operations. Focus Point’s commitment has been recognised with an improved ESG rating from Bursa Malaysia and FTSE. It was upgraded from two stars to three out of a maximum of four, which reflects its serious approach to climate responsibility and ethical business practices.
OUTLOOK FOR 2025
Looking ahead, Focus Point remains optimistic. With the myopia rate climbing among children and an ageing population increasingly in need of vision correction, the company sees sustainable demand in the optical segment. To tap into untapped markets, Focus Point has also introduced a secondary brand, Optometris Anggun, aiming to complement its flagship offerings and broaden its reach.
Meanwhile, the F&B business is poised for further growth through B2B partnerships. With stable ingredient costs and strategic operational improvements, Focus Point is eyeing increased profitability from this oncechallenging segment.
BONUS ISSUE
On 29 July 2025, Focus Point Holdings Berhad obtained shareholder approval at its Extraordinary General Meeting for a bonus issue and a Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP). The approved 1-for-3 bonus issue entails the issuance of up to 153,999,680 new ordinary shares. The entitlement date has been set on 15 August 2025 as announced on 1 August 2025. The bonus issue will be determined by the Board and announced later, pending receipt of all relevant approvals. In addition, shareholders will have the option to reinvest their dividend, in whole or in part, into new Dividend Reinvestment Shares instead of receiving cash, offering greater flexibility in managing their investments.
CONCLUSION
Focus Point’s 36th year marks not just longevity but evolution. With disciplined execution and bold innovation, Focus Point is not just looking ahead — it’s leading the way. ■
