With over 500 outlets already operating both locally and internationally, Marrybrown’s expansion is part of a broader strategy to support Malaysia’s local economy and uplift communities. Speaking at the Molek Bersama event in Kelantan, Marrybrown CEO Daniel Lek Seong Chan said,
“We attribute our success to the tremendous support we receive from local communities, who not only patronise our outlets but also serve as dedicated employees of Marrybrown. Today’s event is a small gesture of our appreciation towards their loyalty and service.”
The Molek Bersama series is part of Marrybrown’s hyper-localised CSR initiative called Homegrown Heroes, which aims to celebrate employees and the communities they come from. Through this programme, Marrybrown works closely with staff to identify meaningful community activities that the brand can support with resources or participation.
“There are many unsung heroes amongst our employees—volunteering their precious time to uplift their communities,” Chan added.
“Homegrown Heroes is envisioned as a platform to amplify these efforts, giving our staff a say in the initiatives we support rather than deploying a top-down, one-size-fits-all campaign.”
Currently employing over 10,000 people, Marrybrown’s upcoming expansion is also aligned with the Malaysian MADANI Government’s target of creating 127,000 new jobs—particularly for youth and fresh graduates.
Chan noted that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of the Malaysian economy:
“SMEs constitute 97 per cent of all businesses in Malaysia, contributing 38.2 per cent of our GDP, and employ 48 per cent of the nation’s workforce. As an SME, we have a vital role in driving economic development and providing job opportunities within local communities.”
Founded in Johor Bahru in 1981, Marrybrown has evolved from a single restaurant to one of the world’s largest halal fast-food chains. The brand continues to promote Malaysian culinary heritage abroad with regional menu offerings available in countries such as Australia, Cambodia, and Qatar.
