Craving that sweet, smoky bak kwa or rougan this Chinese New Year 2026? These are some of the best spots in Malaysia to stock up on this festive favourite, from KL to JB.
As Chinese New Year 2026 approaches, the familiar pull of festive flavours returns, and few treats spark nostalgia quite like bak kwa, also known as rougan. Sweet, smoky and tender, this barbecued meat delicacy has long been a staple on celebration tables, gifted in ornate boxes and enjoyed in generous slices throughout the season. While it is now available year round, there is something undeniably special about snacking on bak kwa during Chinese New Year, when tradition and indulgence go hand in hand.
To help you get straight to the good stuff, we have put together a definitive guide to where you can find the best bak kwa or rougan in Malaysia. From well-known brands with loyal followings to old school family-run shops that have perfected their recipes over decades, this list highlights spots worth queueing for. Whether you prefer classic charcoal-grilled pork slices or modern interpretations with a twist, consider this your go-to guide for snacking well this festive season.
Shop the best bak kwa or rougan in Malaysia this Chinese New Year 2026
Best bak kwa in Kuala Lumpur and PJ
Loong Kee
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Tucked along the bustling stretch of Jalan Alor, Loong Kee is a long-standing name in Kuala Lumpur’s bak kwa scene. Operating since 1976, the brand has built a loyal following thanks to its dried meats. Known especially for its barbecued bak kwa, each slice strikes a balance between caramelised sweetness and deep smoky notes. The Jalan Alor outlet remains its most famous location, drawing both locals and tourists who are eager to sample a true KL classic. Over the years, Loong Kee has expanded steadily, with branches now found across Malaysia.
Loong Kee @ Jalan Alor
Address: 79, Jln Alor, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 03-2143 0392
Operating hours: 8 AM – 1 AM (opens daily)
More Loong Kee locations here.
Oloiya
Oloiya’s story began in 1970 as a small family-run stall in Petaling Street, where it first introduced its bak kwa to the public. Decades later, the original shop still operates, standing as a reminder of its roots and popularity. While the business has grown significantly and adopted modern production techniques, its flavours remain grounded in the original recipe developed by founders Mr and Mrs Khue.
Don’t leave without trying the Oloiya toast, a signature item that has become a cult favourite. Alongside traditional pork and chicken options, the brand also offers squid dried meat.
Oloiya @ Petaling Street
Address: 30, Jalan Hang Lekir, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 03-2078 2536
Operating hours: 8.30 AM – 10 PM (opens daily)
More Oloiya locations here.
Hock Chuan Hiong
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Established in 1996, Hock Chuan Hiong has become particularly well known for its pork bak kwa, which leans towards a sweeter, juicier profile. While the brand has brick-and-mortar outlets in Klang, it has also extended its reach nationwide through online sales.
The minced pork bak kwa is also a standout item, offering a rich flavour paired with a pleasing chew. Another popular product is the chicken floss, which is light, airy and versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or added to meals for extra flavour.
Hock Chuan Hiong @ Bandar Bukit Tinggi
Address: 40-00-01, 40-00-01, Lorong Batu Nilam 1d, Bandar Bukit Tinggi 1, 41200 Klang, Selangor
Contact: 010-234 9328
Operating hours: 9 AM – 8 PM (opens daily)
Wing Heong
Wing Heong has been producing bak kwa since 1972, staying true to a closely guarded family sauce recipe that defines its distinctive taste. The meat is traditionally smoked over bamboo mesh, a method that imparts a deep, lingering smokiness.
The brand prides itself on using no preservatives, tenderisers or artificial additives. For something out of the ordinary, Wing Heong also offers ostrich bak kwa, catering to those keen to try something different.
Wing Heong @ Imbi Road
Address: 120, Jln Imbi, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 012-855 0036
Operating hours: 9 AM – 9 PM (opens daily)
More Wing Heong locations here.
Lim Meng Kee
Founded in 1978 at Petaling Street, Lim Meng Kee has since evolved into a brand known for pushing boundaries. Its flagship store along Jalan Imbi draws crowds for one particularly creation, lobster bak kwa. This unconventional offering has become especially popular with tourists looking for something unique. Now led by third-generation family members, the brand continues to honour tradition while exploring new ideas that keep it relevant.
Lim Meng Kee @ TRX
Address: 15, Jalan Barat, Off, Jln Imbi, Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 03-2144 3115
Operating hours: 9 AM – 8 PM (opens daily)
Bee Cheng Hiang
With a history spanning over eight decades, Bee Cheng Hiang is one of the most recognisable names in the bak kwa world. Its preparation process remains rooted in tradition, using bamboo sieves and slow smoking over live charcoal to develop its signature flavour.
Those who enjoy heat should look out for the chilli gourmet bak kwa, which delivers a kick balanced by smoky undertones. The sliced beef bak kwa is another highlight, made from premium cuts and marinated thoroughly for a robust finish.
Bee Cheng Hiang @ Jalan Sultan
Address: 87, Lorong Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 03-2022 2261
Operating hours: 9 AM – 9.30 PM (opens daily)
More Bee Cheng Hiang locations here.
Thin Heong
Operating since 1976, Thin Heong is particularly associated with festive snacking during Chinese New Year. Its bak kwa is known for a crisp texture and aroma. One of its most popular items is the honey-glazed bacon, which delivers crunch followed by a burst of sweetness. The sliced pork version offers a smokier, lightly spiced alternative.
Thin Heong @ Maluri
Address: 27, Jalan Jejaka 5, Maluri, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 016-983 8386
Operating hours: 7.30 AM – 10 PM (closed on Mondays)
Hock Moon Hiong
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Originating from Klang, Hock Moon Hiong has earned a reputation for its wide range of dried meats, sausages and flosses. Its products are a common sight on festive tables during Chinese New Year too. For those seeking bolder flavours, options like red wine bak kwa and salted egg bak kwa offer a twist.
Hock Moon Hiong @ Kuchai Lama
Address: B-0-9, Pusat Perdagangan Kuchai.2, Jalan 1/127, Off, Jalan Kuchai Lama, Kuchai Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 010-301 1413
Operating hours: 10 AM – 8 PM (opens daily)
More Hock Moon Hiong locations here.
Ju Bee Hiong
Ju Bee Hiong may fly under the radar, but it has built a steady following thanks to its traditionally-prepared bak kwa. Made in small batches, the emphasis here is on freshness and flavour, which keeps customers returning year after year.
Ju Bee Hiong @ Kepong
Address: Metro Prima, 37, Jln Kepong, Kepong, 52100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: 03-6263 4139
Operating hours: 10 AM – 10 PM (opens daily)
Tawakkal Foods
For halal-certified bak kwa, Tawakkal Foods in Sepang is a reliable choice. Approved by JAKIM, the brand prepares its bak kwa by smoking it until partially cooked before finishing it over charcoal. The result is a well-balanced texture with a gentle smoky flavour, suitable for sharing with Muslim friends and family.
Tawakkal Foods @ Sepang
Address: PT 1464, Sepang Industrial Area, 43900 Sepang, Selangor
Contact: 03-3141 2647
Operating hours: 8 AM – 5 PM (closed on Sundays)
Best bak kwa in Ipoh
Ban Lee Heong
With more than four decades of experience, Ban Lee Heong is one of Ipoh’s most established bak kwa producers. Each batch is handmade using fresh ingredients, with careful attention paid to aroma, colour and taste. The brand is especially recognised for its charcoal fragrance, achieved through traditional grilling techniques that have remained the same over the years.
Ban Lee Heong @ Buntong
Address: 349, Jalan Besar, Buntong, 30100 Ipoh, Perak
Contact: 05-254 1486
Operating hours: 9 AM – 6.30 PM (opens daily)
Ban Lee Heong @ Taman Jubilee
Address: 48, Jalan Mustapha Al-Bakri, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
Contact: 05-254 1486
Operating hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
Lim Keng Guan
Established in 1961, Lim Keng Guan is a familiar name among Ipoh residents. Specialising in charcoal-grilled dried meat, the shop is often recommended by locals who appreciate its straightforward, traditional flavours.
Lim Keng Guan @ Taman Jubilee
Address: 154, Jalan Sultan Iskandar, Taman Jubilee, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
Contact: 05-254 0837
Operating hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (closed on Thursdays)
Seong Kee
Seong Kee is widely regarded as one of Ipoh’s leading pork shops, offering a variety of dried meats made using recipes passed down through generations. In addition to bak kwa, customers will find Chinese sausages and chicken floss, all prepared with an emphasis on quality and authenticity.
Seong Kee @ Kampung Simee
Address: No. 38 & 39, Jalan Pasar, Kampung Simee, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
Contact: 012-501 8621
Operating hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (except Sundays) | 12 PM – 5 PM (Sundays only)
Best bak kwa in Johor
3191 Massisco BBQ Meat
At 3191 Massisco BBQ Meat, attention to detail begins with seasoning, which is handled personally by the chef. This hands-on approach ensures consistency in both flavour and quality. Each slice of pork belly is then carefully prepared to achieve a balanced ratio of fat to meat, resulting in a rich aroma and satisfying bite once grilled over charcoal.
3191 Massisco BBQ Meat @ Skudai
Address: 28, Jalan Hulubalang 1, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Contact: 010-914 1319
Operating hours: 9 AM – 8 PM (opens daily)
Hejia Bakery
Hejia Bakery focuses on premium cuts of meat, slow-cooked to draw out a deep smoky flavour. All bak kwa is vacuum-sealed to maintain freshness, which makes it suitable for delivery and gifting. Its minced pork and chicken jerky remain bestsellers, thanks largely to a closely guarded marinade that has been handed down within the family.
Best bak kwa in Penang
Tuck Kee
Tuck Kee traces its roots back to 1979, when founder Mr Chong began selling bak kwa at Chowrasta Market after preparing it at home. As demand grew, family members joined him, eventually leading to the establishment of the current shop on Jalan Kuala Kangsar. One of its most popular items is the gold coin dried meat, which offers subtle hints of Chinese wine at the centre, complemented by juicy pork beneath.
Tuck Kee @ George Town
Address: 39, Jalan Kuala Kangsar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-262 8726
Operating hours: 7 AM – 7 PM (opens daily)
Penang Bang Bang
Although relatively new, Penang Bang Bang has quickly gained traction, selling large volumes of vacuum-packed bak kwa each year. The classic pork version remains a crowd favourite, while the coin-shaped pieces are ideal for quick snacking. Its growing popularity suggests it is definitely worth trying.
Chen Chung Bakkwa
Since opening in 1992, Chen Chung has remained committed to producing bak kwa using traditional charcoal grilling methods. All orders are prepared fresh, with grilling done the night before delivery to ensure optimal taste and texture.
Chen Chung Bakkwa @ George Town
Address: 15, Jalan Krian, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 011-5559 6176
Operating hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (opens daily)
Lai Yoke Kee
A long-established name in Penang, Lai Yoke Kee has been serving charcoal-grilled bak kwa for more than 50 years. Its popularity speaks to the consistency of its flavours.
Lai Yoke Kee @ George Town
Address: 90, Jalan Pintal Tali, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-261 0671
Operating hours: 8 AM – 1 PM (closed on Sundays)
San Lai Yoke Kee
San Lai Yoke Kee is run by the founder’s son, while the original Lai Yoke Kee remains under first-generation management. Despite being a newer outlet, it continues the same charcoal-grilled tradition, offering customers a taste that closely mirrors old-school Penang bak kwa.
San Lai Yoke Kee @ George Town
Address: 52, Lorong Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 012-482 7338
Operating hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (closed on Sundays)
(Hero and feature images credit: Instagram/ @oloiya & @chenchungbakkwa)
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
