MFA Prioritises TVET To Strengthen Malaysia’s Franchise Ecosystem

KUALA LUMPUR, May 21 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA) is stepping up efforts to strengthen the franchise ecosystem through strategic programmes and closer industry-government collaboration, with a primary focus on human capital development via Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Its chairman, Datuk Dr Radzali Hassan said the association is currently collaborating with Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) on a TVET initiative specifically tailored for the franchise industry.

“We sincerely hope this programme will receive support from all MFA members and franchise players across all sectors,” he said at the opening of the Franchise International Malaysia 2026 (FIM 2026) here today.

The event was officiated by Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, representing Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Radzali noted that several franchise brands, including 7-Eleven, McDonald’s and Marrybrown, have already integrated TVET-related programmes into their business operations, with more players expected to follow suit following encouraging feedback.

Radzali said MFA will also launch the ASEAN University Franchise Business Challenge in collaboration with franchise associations in the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore to nurture young entrepreneurial talent and position Malaysia as a regional hub for franchise education, innovation and talent development.

“This year also marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the first batch of graduates from the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) programme, which was introduced by the International Franchise Association (IFA).

“The CFE programme is an internationally recognised professional certification programme and to date, MFA is the only association in Malaysia that has the right to run the CFE programme, in collaboration with the Philippine Franchise Association,” he added.

Guided by its motto, ‘Driving Franchise Excellence’, Radzali said MFA would continue working closely with the government and industry stakeholders to advance a competitive, progressive and sustainable franchise nation.

“Our focus remains clear to strengthen industry capabilities, expand the global market, and create greater opportunities for Malaysian entrepreneurs and franchise brands to grow successfully both locally and internationally,” he said.

On FIM 2026, Radzali said the association expects to draw over 25,000 visitors and generate more than RM600 million in transactions during the three-day event from 21-23 May.

He stated that FIM 2026 marks a significant step up in scale and strategy, with international participation from countries including Spain, Taiwan, Indonesia, Japan, and China rising by 10 per cent, a development that reflects a collective aspiration to position Malaysia as a central gateway for franchise expansion, investment, and cross-border business collaboration.

He added that over the years, FIM has grown into one of the region’s most prominent franchise exhibitions, connecting thousands of entrepreneurs, investors and franchise owners, and generating meaningful business opportunities and economic impact.

“The continuous support from industry players and government agencies has made FIM not just an exhibition, but a strategic platform for business growth, knowledge sharing and international networking,” he shared.

The event also witnessed the exchange of three Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) involving MFA and the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO), Perbadanan Nasional Berhad (Pernas) and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), and MFA and Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL).

In addition, the event featured the launch of the MFA TVET programme and the presentation of graduation certificates to participants of the franchise professional training programme, namely the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) Programme.

-- BERNAMA