SENAI: Johor-based processed food and beverage (F&B) company, A1 A.K. Koh Group Bhd (A1 AKK), has obtained shareholders’ approval for the acquisition of a 1.01-acre leasehold commercial land in Pekan Puchong Jaya, Daerah Petaling, Selangor, for RM16.73 million.
A1 AKK, via its wholly-owned subsidiary, A. K. Koh Enterprise Sdn Bhd, plans to develop a four-storey commercial building with an estimated gross floor area of about 45,260 square feet on the land.
The preliminary indicative gross development cost is approximately RM11.03 million, to be funded through a combination of internally generated funds and bank borrowings.
Construction works are projected to commence in the third quarter of 2027, with commencement of operations by the fourth quarter of 2029.
The new facility will replace the group’s existing rented office at Taman Perindustrian OUG, Kuala Lumpur, which has a built-up area of 4,938 square feet.
The larger premises are intended to accommodate A1 AKK’s sales and marketing activities, customer engagement initiatives and regional business development requirements.
Speaking after the group’s extraordinary general meeting (EGM), A1 AKK managing director Koh Ah Kuan said the shareholders’ approval reflects their understanding of the group’s strategic direction.
“The regional office, which is approximately 9 times larger than our current rented premises, will provide a more scalable operating base to support A1 AKK’s sales, marketing and customer engagement activities in the central region.
“Alongside this infrastructure expansion, we have been busy broadening our product portfolio to address evolving consumer preferences,” he said.
Koh said recently, the group has rolled out several new products, including brown rice vermicelli targeted at health-conscious consumers, as well as hotpot seasonings featuring Malaysian flavours.
Further, the group is also preparing to introduce a new instant noodle variant.
In addition, A1 AKK is developing its newer sub-brands, namely Oppaku for snacks, Kariku for curry powder and spice mixes, and Kofikuu for coffee and beverage products, to reach younger consumers, the broader mass market and the halal consumer segment.
Apart from that, the group is stepping up efforts to increase market share in the hotel, restaurant and catering (HORECA) segment by offering selected products in bulk and food service formats.
A1 AKK will also seek to improve its visibility among tourists in Malaysia and progressively expand its reach into regional halal export markets.
The contribution from these initiatives is expected to develop over time.
“We are positive on the group’s prospects, supported by multiple growth avenues across product innovation, market expansion and wider distribution.
“The new regional office is expected to improve the coordination of these initiatives and strengthen our ability to serve customers in the central region.
“A1 AKK will remain disciplined in executing the group’s plans while maintaining prudent cost and capital management,” Koh said.