Kuala Lumpur, 5 December 2025 – The Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) marked a significant milestone today as it celebrated its 33rd Anniversary Dinner at the Grand Lagoon Ballroom, Sunway Resort Hotel. The event brought together over 1,000 distinguished guests, including industry leaders, corporate partners, retail pioneers, and prominent figures from Malaysia’s business landscape.
The evening was graced by the Guest of Honour, Dato’ Seri Idris Jala, President & CEO of PEMANDU Associates and Non-Executive Co-Chairman of Sunway Group. He and his son, Leon, started a podcast called The Game of Impossible.
He is accompanied by MRCA President Datuk Dr. Ken Phua, MRCA Founding President Dato’ Eddie Choon, members of the President Council, MRCA Council Members, advisors, and a lineup of esteemed VIP guests, including Tan Sri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, Tan Sri Teo Chiang Liang, and other industry captains.
Datuk Dr. Ken Phua, in his opening remarks, stated that MRCA will continue to unite the industry, champion members’ interests, and drive digitalisation, innovation, and growth within Malaysia’s retail sector.
“This anniversary marks not just MRCA’s longevity, but the collective strength of our members who continue to uplift Malaysia’s retail industry. We will push forward with greater innovation, stronger collaboration, and a unified voice for all retailers.” Ken Phua said.
The evening’s program commenced with a special live podcast session with Dato’ Sri Idris Jala and Leon Jala, followed by a heartfelt father-and-son music performance that captivated the audience.
The event then shifted focus to a series of acknowledgements, celebrating members for their enduring commitment. This included the recognition of Pioneer Members with 20 to 33 years of membership, honoring longstanding brands such as 7-Eleven Malaysia, Nelson’s, Giant, OSIM, Bonia, and Poh Kong, to name a few. Furthermore, members with 15 to 19 years of membership were also celebrated, including Focus Point, Secret Recipe, KK Super Mart, Popular Book Co., and more.
The prestigious MRCA Retail Excellence Awards 2025 recognised outstanding retailers for their achievements and contributions to Malaysia’s retail landscape. Awards were presented across four categories: Retail, Food and Beverage (F&B), Franchise, and Digitalisation, with notable winners including 99 Speed Mart, Focus Point, and Mr D.I.Y for the retail categories. Food and Beverage categories winners are Empire Sushi, Marrybrown, and Secret Recipe; Franchise categories awards go to City Coin Laundry, Loob Holding, and My US Pizza; Digitalisation categories won by Senheng Electric (KL), Santan Food, and Zuspresso. The awards were presented by Datuk Dr. Ken Phua, witnessed by Dato Sri Idris Jala.
MRCA extended special appreciation to its Silver, Gold, and Platinum Sponsors, whose support made the celebration possible.
