Malaysia Targets Regional Franchise Leadership as FIM2026 Draws Global Brands to KLCC
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is strengthening its position as a leading franchise hub in the ASEAN region through the Malaysia International Franchise Exhibition 2026 (FIM2026), which has attracted more than 100 local and international franchise brands to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
The three-day exhibition, taking place from May 21 to 23, is expected to draw around 25,000 visitors, including entrepreneurs, investors, aspiring franchisees and industry players seeking new business opportunities and strategic partnerships.
FIM2026 features a wide range of activities such as business seminars, forums, franchise exhibitions, business matching sessions, franchise sharing programmes and interactive edutainment activities designed to support the growth of Malaysia’s franchise ecosystem.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the government remains committed to empowering the national franchise industry and helping more Malaysian brands expand internationally.
In a speech delivered by Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Armizan Mohd Ali during the opening ceremony, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the success of several Malaysian franchise brands on the global stage.
He noted that Global Art has expanded into more than 20 countries with over 600 art centres worldwide, while Marrybrown now operates in 16 countries with more than 500 outlets.
“These achievements reflect the strength, quality and innovation of Malaysian businesses while demonstrating the growing competitiveness of local franchise brands internationally,” he said.
The ceremony also included the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Malaysian Franchise Association and the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia, alongside the launch of the MFA TVET programme and the presentation of graduation certificates to participants of the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) Programme.
According to Malaysian Franchise Association chairman Radzali Hassan, FIM2026 recorded a 10 per cent increase in international brand participation compared to the previous year.
Companies from countries including Spain, Taiwan, Indonesia, Japan and China are participating in this year’s exhibition, reflecting increasing international confidence in Malaysia’s franchise market potential.
The event also showcases more than 20 emerging franchise brands currently undergoing development under Perbadanan Nasional Berhad.
Among the strategic partners supporting the programme are US Pizza, The Manhattan Fish Market, Domino’s Pizza, Kyochon Chicken and McDonald’s.
FIM2026 is organised by the Malaysian Franchise Association in collaboration with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living and Perbadanan Nasional Berhad, with support from international agencies and ASEAN strategic partners.
The exhibition is also recognised by the World Franchise Council, the Asia Pacific Franchise Confederation and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation.
Members of the public are encouraged to visit the exhibition and explore a wide range of franchise business opportunities available across multiple industries.