Melbourne: The Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Bhd (EXIM Bank) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Marrybrown Sdn Bhd to serve as the primary financial supporter for the halal fast-food chain’s expansion into Australia. This partnership aims to provide necessary foreign currency financing to facilitate Marrybrown’s entry into the Australian market.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, EXIM Bank announced that its financial support has already led to the successful opening of five new Marrybrown outlets in Melbourne, with the potential to increase this number to 10, thereby establishing a stronger foothold in the region. “EXIM Bank’s backing enhances Malaysia’s image as a breeding ground for successful international franchises and aids the global success of Malaysian brands,” the bank stated.
EXIM Bank’s president and chief executive officer, Nurbayu Kasim Chang, mentioned that this MoU underscores the bank’s dedication to supporting the global expansion of Malaysian brands. She noted, “Through strategic financial solutions, we enable Marrybrown’s growth in Australia, driving business development and enhancing Malaysia’s global market presence.”
In addition, Marrybrown’s group executive director, Datuk Joshua Liew, emphasized that the bank’s financial solutions will significantly boost the company’s international growth plans, especially in promising markets like Australia. “This partnership not only expands Marrybrown’s international reach but also demonstrates the competitiveness of Malaysian brands globally, creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs through our franchise system,” Liew stated.
The food and beverage sector is increasingly becoming a significant area of focus, and EXIM Bank has responded by substantially increasing its support, with export financing for the sector rising by over 800 percent from 2023 to 2024. The bank highlighted that this increase is part of its RM 3.1 billion allocation for credit takaful and business financing in 2024, aimed at driving industry expansion and enhancing Malaysia’s presence in global markets.
This initiative aligns with the goals of the MoU, reflecting a shared vision to advance Malaysia’s franchise industry, which is projected to reach RM46 billion in value by 2025. Beyond supporting Marrybrown’s international growth, EXIM Bank is also setting the stage for other Malaysian franchisors to expand globally.
Through customized financial solutions and strategic support, EXIM Bank encourages and empowers homegrown brands to enter new markets, strengthen their global presence, and compete internationally, thereby elevating Malaysian enterprises into well-respected players on the world stage.