Melaka: Modern Nusantara cuisine restaurant brand Bumbu Babah is strengthening its foothold in Malaysia’s food franchise market with the opening of its 33rd outlet on Jalan Hang Tuah, marking Melaka as its latest strategic location for business expansion. The first outlet in Melaka, which has been operating for three months, was established through a strategic collaboration between Analynsda Holdings Sdn Bhd and Babah Ventures Sdn Bhd, the main operator of the Bumbu Babah restaurant chain nationwide.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, celebrity and co-founder of the authentic Minang cuisine, Ajak Shiro, said the choice of Melaka was not merely to expand investment and brand presence but also to elevate Nusantara’s culinary heritage as a new attraction for food tourism in the historic state. Ajak mentioned that Melaka holds sentimental value and has great potential to attract tourists. The opening of a Bumbu Babah outlet in Melaka is intended to revive a rich culinary heritage and position it as a destination for tourists to enjoy authentic Nusantara flavors.

Ajak emphasized that the Melaka franchise also creates job opportunities for local residents and supports the state government’s efforts to enhance gastronomy-based tourism products. There are plans to open another outlet, potentially near the beach, which aims to grow operations, create employment, and contribute to the state’s economic development. The current branch is expected to receive over 15,000 visitors in its first month of operation.

He also noted that Bumbu Babah now operates 34 outlets nationwide, with all dishes prepared at a central kitchen certified halal by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) to ensure strict quality and hygiene standards. By the end of this year, the company aims to have 42 outlets operating nationwide, including in the East Coast, Sabah, and Sarawak. This expansion further strengthens Bumbu Babah’s position as a key player in Malaysia’s modern Nusantara restaurant franchise industry.