Dr.Datuk Radzali Hassan, Chairman of the Malaysian Franchise Association
Franchise International Malaysia 2025 (FIM 2025) is set to emerge as a pivotal platform for franchise growth across the ASEAN region, offering both local and international brands the opportunity to explore new markets and foster strategic collaborations.
Organised by the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA) in partnership with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development(MECD), this forthcoming edition anticipates the participation of over 150 franchise players and an estimated 30,000 visitors, further cementing Malaysia’s role as a regional franchise hub.
According to MFA Chairman Dr. Datuk Radzali Hassan, FIM 2025 will showcase a comprehensive range of high-impact programmes tailored to promote business networking, knowledge exchange, and cross-border investment.
“One of the key highlights will be the ASEAN Franchise Convention, scheduled for 7–8 May, which will convene industry leaders and experts to discuss crucial topics such as franchise sustainability, digital transformation, and long-term profitability,” he told SunBiz. “The convention will also witness the adoption of significant franchise-related declarations among ASEAN member states, thereby enhancing regional cooperation.”
Radzali also noted that a franchise business matching session, slated for 8 May, will be held to connect franchise brands with prospective investors and strategic partners from more than 20 countries. This initiative is designed to support franchise brands in expanding beyond their domestic borders.
Other major events include the franchise exhibition, which will run from 8 to 10 May and feature leading global franchise brands, as well as the Certified Franchise Executive Training Programme from 5 to 6 May, aimed at equipping professionals with advanced skills in franchise management.
Looking beyond FIM 2025, Radzali highlighted MFA’s continued efforts to facilitate the global expansion of Malaysian franchise brands through a series of outbound trade missions to high-potential markets.
“In 2025, we will lead franchise trade delegations to key markets including the Philippines, Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Kazakhstan. These missions will connect Malaysian franchisors with international investors and business counterparts,” he explained.
He added that such missions provide direct market access and invaluable insight into local consumer behaviour, regulatory environments, and investment landscapes. “They also include structured networking opportunities such as business matching sessions, market briefings, and franchise showcases,” he said.
Radzali stressed the importance of these initiatives in positioning Malaysia as a global franchise leader. “Malaysia possesses a robust franchise ecosystem, supported by comprehensive legislation such as the Franchise Act 1998 and internationally recognised certifications, including our halal certification. Through FIM 2025 and our international missions, we aim to accelerate the global reach of Malaysian franchise brands while strengthening cross-border partnerships.”
To support sustainable franchise development, MFA is actively collaborating with financial institutions and government agencies to improve access to funding for franchise entrepreneurs.
“Organisations such as Perbadanan Nasional Bhd, SME Bank, and Tekun Nasional are offering financing schemes specifically tailored for the franchise sector. Furthermore, the Market Development Grant provided by MATRADE continues to support international expansion efforts by subsidising market entry costs,” he said.
With the National Franchise Policy 2030 identifying franchising as a vital driver of economic growth, Radzali reiterated MFA’s strategic priorities: expanding market access, enhancing financial support mechanisms, and fostering robust global partnerships.
“As we continue to deepen collaborations with government agencies, trade bodies, and private sector stakeholders, FIM 2025 and our upcoming trade missions are poised to play a central role in propelling Malaysia’s franchise industry forward—both regionally and globally.”
FIM 2025 will take place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 8 to 10 May, offering franchise brands, investors, and industry stakeholders an unparalleled opportunity to engage, collaborate, and grow their businesses beyond borders.
