KUALA LUMPUR, August 22, 2025 – The Malaysia Franchise Expo 2025 (FEM 2025), which kicks off today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) and runs until Saturday, is aiming to generate RM120 million in business transactions — a 20% increase compared to last year’s event.

The eighth edition of FEM was officially launched on Thursday (Aug 21) by Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Ewon Benedick.

Organised by the Malaysian Retail Chain Association (MRCA), FEM 2025 features 400 exhibitors from both local and international markets across various sectors, including food and beverage, education, healthcare, retail, and technology. The event is expected to attract over 18,000 visitors.

Ewon expressed the government’s continued support through the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) for associations such as MRCA in organising expos like this.

“These platforms provide opportunities for entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners to explore new ventures, expand their networks, and gain access to vital services including financing, innovation, and market access,” he said in his officiating speech at FEM 2025.

He added that KUSKOP will continue to support the franchise sector through policy development, including the previously launched National Franchise Policy (DFN) 2030, as well as financing and market access via agencies such as Perbadanan Nasional Berhad (PERNAS).

Franchising, Ewon noted, remains a key driver of Malaysia’s economic growth, with over 1,100 registered franchise brands contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“Franchising is not just a business model — it’s a major economic catalyst that creates jobs, strengthens SMEs, and expands Malaysia’s trade footprint internationally,” he said.

FEM 2025, he added, serves as a vital platform for connecting entrepreneurs, franchisors, and investors.

The government, through the National Franchise Policy (DFN) 2030, aims to position Malaysia as a regional franchise hub by 2030, with targets of 4,250 registered local franchises and over 2,000 franchise outlets abroad.

“KUSKOP will continue to enhance policies, financing, and market access, including through PERNAS as the industry’s strategic partner,” Ewon concluded.