15 October 2025,
East Malaysia’s iconic quick-service restaurant brand SugarBun Corporation Berhad (SugarBun) has signed a regional partnership with Sedaplycious Sdn Bhd (Sedaplycious) to expand deeper into West Malaysia. The agreement marks a major milestone for the home-grown brand as it builds a national presence and sets its sights on international growth.
Borneo Oil Berhad (BornOil) managing director Datuk Joseph Ambrose Lee said the partnership is set to strengthen SugarBun’s footprint beyond its stronghold in Sabah and Sarawak, creating a truly national presence while laying the foundation for global opportunities. Bursa-listed BornOil is the holding company for SugarBun.
“SugarBun will bring our signature Broasted Chicken, Savoury Rice and other East Malaysian favourites to new communities across the peninsula, while creating jobs, empowering local suppliers and opening franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs,” he said.
“This partnership represents a defining moment in SugarBun’s journey. West Malaysia is a natural growth market with three times the population of East Malaysia. With Sedaplycious as our partner, we can expand the brand’s reach, strengthen our supply chain and build a stronger platform for international growth.”
The Regional Area Development Agreement was formalised today by SugarBun subsidiary, SB Supplies & Logistics Sdn Bhd, to appoint Sedaplycious as its appointed master franchise partner.
Guests-of-honour at the event were Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Ewon Benedick and Perbadanan Nasional Berhad (PERNAS) CEO Datuk Nor Azam bin M. Taib.
Supported by PERNAS under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), this initiative enhances national economic resilience through franchise empowerment, entrepreneurial development, and inclusive MSME growth. Through the SugarBun Express franchise model, the initiative will generate employment, expand business opportunities for youth and local entrepreneurs, and strengthen local supply chains
Ewon said the partnership demonstrated how home-grown brands could scale across regions while staying true to their heritage.
This development contributes to national economic growth through job creation, franchise expansion, and increased MSME participation across the food supply chain, supporting regional balance and inclusivity in line with RMK-13.
Meanwhile, Sedaplycious founder Sean Leong said the collaboration was as much about passion as it was about business.
“I have always loved SugarBun’s juicy Broasted Chicken and Savoury Rice. At Sedaplycious, we are committed to expanding the SugarBun brand because I know West Malaysians will love it too. This agreement is not only a business venture but also a mission to create jobs, empower local suppliers and bring Borneo’s unique flavours to more communities.”
Founded in Sarawak over 40 years ago, SugarBun has grown from humble beginnings into one of East Malaysia’s most recognisable restaurant brands. It currently has more than 104 outlets predominantly in Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.
The introduction of the SugarBun Express model has also lowered the barrier for entrepreneurs to enter the franchise.
“Our compact SugarBun Express model makes it easier for aspiring business owners to join the franchise and allows us to bring quality dining experiences even to smaller towns and outskirt areas where food options are limited,” said Joseph.
The ceremony also featured the launch of Sabacco’s newest creation, the Tuhau Wild Ginger Chilli Sauce. Rooted in the Kadazan-Dusun heritage of Sabah, the sauce is celebrated for its bold, tangy flavour that reflects the biodiversity of Borneo.
Source: Malaysiakini
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