The ASEAN Retail Chains & Franchise Federation (ARFF) was proud to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a momentous celebration dedicated to commemorating a decade and a half of remarkable achievements and contributions within the ASEAN market. The anniversary dinner was graced by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan and witnessed by Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Bin Yaakob, the 9th Prime Minister of Malaysia who is also ARFF’s patron. The evening provided a platform for celebration, recognition, and networking to all key industry leaders, distinguished guests, and award recipients.
The event received added distinctions by a distinguished array of guests, including ambassadors from Cambodia and Myanmar along with representatives from the embassies of Brunei, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam and Laos. Additionally, the event welcomed presidents and chairpersons of leading trade associations and chambers of commerce, adding to the evening’s prestige and providing valuable networking opportunities.
A central highlight of the evening was the formal installation of ARFF’s new council members for the 2024-2026 term. This pivotal ceremony not only introduced the incoming council members but also set the stage for their future roles within the federation. The installation showcased each member’s responsibilities and the strategic goals for the upcoming term.
By officially welcoming the new council members, the ceremony underscored their vital role in guiding ARFF towards fostering industry growth and enhancing collaboration across the ASEAN retail and franchise sectors. This anniversary dinner is not only a celebration of ARFF’s past achievements but also a significant moment for fostering connections among members, industry leaders, and partners.
ARFF President Dato’ Sri Mike Loh said, “Since its inception, ARFF has been steadfast in its commitment to advancing the retail chains and franchise industry. The driving vision behind ARFF’s mission is to elevate ASEAN countries beyond mere geographic locations, aiming instead to forge a dynamic regional powerhouse that serves as a central hub for commerce, culture, resources, and expertise.”
ARFF Patron Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Bin Yaakob stated, “ARFF has come leaps and bounds since its founding in 2008. Reflecting on its remarkable 15-year journey and having worked closely with it especially during my time serving as the Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism as well as the Prime Minister, it is crucial to acknowledge the numerous individuals and organizations that have become the life and blood of ARFF and their contributions, through this federation, to the foster a vibrant and robust retail chains and franchise sector in this country and across Southeast Asia.”
The evening also featured the prestigious presentation of the ASEAN Most Recognised Brands Awards. This accolade honors businesses that have demonstrated exceptional performance and made substantial contributions to the ASEAN market. The award serves to spotlight those companies that have not only achieved remarkable success but have also been instrumental in driving innovation and fostering growth within the industry. By recognizing these standout businesses, the ceremony celebrated their role in shaping the industry’s landscape and underscored the importance of excellence and innovation in achieving sustained success.
The ARFF 15th Anniversary Dinner Organizing Chairman Yen Sek Wai, who is also ARFF’s vice president, expressed, “Since the inception of ARFF, our vision has been to bridge international entrepreneurs and successful industry leaders through cross-learning. We are proud to say that we have realized this vision and continue to foster meaningful connections and growth within the business communities across ASEAN.”
As 2024 draws to a close, ARFF stands poised to maintain its leadership in advancing Malaysian and Southeast Asian retail chains, franchises, and beyond. After celebrating their 15th anniversary, they reaffirm ARFF’s commitment to driving industry growth and innovation through key networking events, exhibitions, cultural exchanges, and trade missions, all while supporting Malaysia’s GDP growth through the wholesale and retail trade sector and empowering businesses throughout the ASEAN region.
The ASEAN Most Recognised Brands Awards winners list are as follows:
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Corporate Advisory Excellence
Dr. Wan Ho Yuen Terence (Managing Director)
Beijing Xinghua Advisory Sdn. Bhd.
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Travel & Tourism Industry Development Excellence
Mita Lim (Founder & Managing Director)
ICE Holidays Sdn. Bhd.
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Authentic Tea Retailing Excellence
Ng Yong Ru (Brand Director)
Legend of Tea Sdn. Bhd.
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in International Export Development Excellence
Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz (CEO)
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand: Best Real Estate Agency of the Year
Marcus Mak (Founder)
M Century Properties Sdn. Bhd.
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Innovative Interior Design Excellence
Michael Tan (Director)
MX Design
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Industrial Automotive Parts & Accessories Supplies
Andry Cahya (Director)
PT Avia Cahya Raya
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Innovative Parking Management & Consultancy Services
Simon (Managing Director)
RealParking Sdn. Bhd.
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand in Tourism & Hospitality Services Excellence
Dato’ Sri Tan Aik Kiong (Group Managing Director)
The Pearl Kuala Lumpur
- ASEAN Most Recognised Brand: CEO of the Year in Sustainability Development Excellence
Datuk Benson Lau (Managing Director)
Varia Berhad
For more information, please visit https://arff.my/about.