Petaling Jaya, 9 Oktober 2025,
The Franchise International Malaysia (FIM) exhibition will make its return next year with a larger and more dynamic edition, further cementing its position as the country’s leading platform for showcasing global franchise opportunities.
Jointly organised by the Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Ministry and the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA), FIM2026 will take place from May 21 to 23, 2026, at Halls 1 and 2, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here.
The announcement was made during the official launch held at M World Hotel, Petaling Jaya, attended by key industry players, government representatives, and members of the media.
FIM2026 is expected to feature over 250 exhibition booths and participation from more than 150 franchise brands from Malaysia and abroad. The exhibition is projected to attract 30,000 visitors and log a 10 per cent increase in sales compared with this year’s event of RM500 million — a sign of the franchise sector’s steady growth and international appeal.
MFA chairman Datuk Dr Radzali Hassan said the upcoming edition would be more impactful, offering broader benefits to exhibitors and visitors while continuing to position Malaysia as the regional champion for franchise development in Asean.
“FIM is not merely an exhibition, it is a gateway to new business opportunities,” he said.
“With more international participation in 2026, we are confident that the exhibition will continue to help Malaysian franchise entrepreneurs penetrate global markets and strengthen Malaysia’s position as the regional franchise hub.”
Dr Radzali said Malaysia’s halal certification, trusted globally for its integrity and quality assurance, gave the country a unique edge.
“Malaysia’s halal certification is recognised and respected internationally. It gives local franchises a strong advantage and people treat our products warmly.”
He added that the presence of international brands at FIM would not only expand collaboration but also provide local businesses with valuable insights into global standards and operations.
“International participation allows Malaysian entrepreneurs to learn from established global players. These brands can serve as examples and benchmarks for local franchises to strengthen their systems and service quality.”
While more than 30 per cent of exhibitors next year are expected to be international brands, Dr Radzali said Malaysian franchises would remain the main focus, as FIM continues to serve as a launchpad for domestic brands to grow and go global.
“Many of the brands that joined this year have expressed their interest to return because of the positive results they saw. This proves that FIM provides tangible business outcomes.”
Recognised as the only franchise exhibition in Malaysia endorsed by the World Franchise Council and the Asia Pacific Franchise Confederation, FIM has also been awarded by the Asean Records as Asean’s Longest-Running Annual Franchise Exhibition in Malaysia, with 32 editions held since 1994.
In its 2025 edition, FIM attracted over 25,000 visitors and generated sales exceeding RM500 million, underscoring its strong track record and role in driving the sector’s development despite economic challenges.
“These results demonstrate the vast potential of Malaysia’s franchise industry. FIM continues to be one of the most relevant and high-impact platforms for entrepreneurs to grow and expand their businesses,” Dr Radzali said.
For 2026, the event will feature business matching sessions, franchise forums, business package sharing sessions and edutainment activities, providing a comprehensive and engaging experience for participants and visitors.
“With strong support from the government, international partners and industry stakeholders, FIM2026 will continue to be a catalyst for growth, empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening Malaysia’s franchise ecosystem,” Dr Radzali added.
Previous participants commended FIM’s impact on their business growth, with Connie Yang from MY US Pizza Sdn Bhd saying the event attracted genuine potential investors and franchisees.
“The presence of serious and interested visitors makes FIM a strategic platform for domestic and international franchisors to promote their business packages,” she said.
Meanwhile, Rafael Mangini from Maple Bear International Schoolhouse Pte Ltd (Maplebear Asiawide) said the experience was dynamic and rewarding.
“This is our first participation. We will definitely continue joining in the future. FIM has proven to be the best platform to build strong business networks and find the right franchisees.”
Looking ahead, MFA is preparing for another key event, the Malam Anugerah Francais Malaysia 2025, which will take place on Oct 23 at The Majestic Hotel here.
“One of the highlights of the year will be the Malaysian Franchise Awards 2025. This prestigious event is eagerly anticipated by the entire industry, especially this year’s finalists,” said Dr Radzali.
With a trusted halal brand reputation, a growing base of international partners and expanding regional influence, Malaysia is well on its way to becoming the Asean leader in the franchise industry with FIM2026 set to play a pivotal role in that journey.
MFA encourages all franchise businesses to take part in FIM2026 and seize the opportunities it offers. For more information, visit www.myfim.my.
Source: New Straits Times
Full Article: https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2025/10/1290268/fim2026-make-big-splash
