Lotus’s, KPDN help Malaysian SMEs expand into retail market

LocalBusiness & Finance
23 Oct 2026 • 4:40 PM MYT
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Image from: Lotus’s, KPDN help Malaysian SMEs expand into retail market

JOM MALAYSIA 2026 connects local entrepreneurs with retail opportunities

LOTUS’S Malaysia and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) are stepping up efforts to help Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expand their market reach through the Jom Beli Produk Malaysia (JOM MALAYSIA) 2026 programme.

Held at Lotus’s Ampang, the programme saw appointment certificates presented to new Lotus’s suppliers, marking their entry into the retailer’s supply network. Outstanding SME suppliers were also recognised for their sales growth, delivery performance and contributions to the local retail sector.

The event was officiated by KPDN Distributive Trade and Business Division Undersecretary Datuk Rohaizi Bahari and Lotus’s Malaysia Executive Director of Corporate Services Azliza Baizura Azmel.

Previously known as Kempen Beli Barangan Malaysia, the initiative was rebranded as JOM MALAYSIA in 2026 to promote locally made products while strengthening the businesses behind them.

Azliza said supporting local SMEs involved more than providing shelf space, as entrepreneurs also needed the capabilities and confidence to grow their businesses.

“Supporting local SMEs means investing in people and the potential of Malaysian businesses,” she said, adding that the success of suppliers would give consumers greater choice and value while strengthening the retailer’s business.

Through its network of 71 stores nationwide, Lotus’s provides local businesses with access to retail customers while helping suppliers improve product standards, operational readiness and supply consistency.

However, securing a retail listing is only the first step for emerging businesses, which must also meet product specifications and packaging requirements, manage inventory and maintain reliable deliveries while adapting to changing consumer preferences.

To address these challenges, Lotus’s has continued its SME Empowerment Seminar, which entered its third edition this year under the theme “Unlock Your Potential – Mastering Business Growth for SMEs”.

Each edition has attracted more than 150 participants representing over 80 micro-enterprises, with sessions covering branding, product quality, supply consistency and the requirements of modern retail.

JOM MALAYSIA 2026 also featured a four-day carnival at Lotus’s Ampang, involving 20 local entrepreneurs who showcased their products directly to customers.

The event gave participating businesses an opportunity to increase product visibility, engage with shoppers and gather feedback on product appeal, pricing and presentation.

Lotus’s and KPDN said their collaboration aimed to connect government initiatives with established retail channels, helping Malaysian entrepreneurs strengthen their market presence and build sustainable commercial relationships.

The partnership is also intended to support local businesses, broaden consumer choice and contribute to the domestic economy.

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