Paris Baguette’s Halal Hub Launch In Johor Boosts Malaysia-South Korea Economic Ties - Ambassador

By Nabilah Saleh

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- The opening of Paris Baguette’s halal-certified bakery factory in Johor is seen as a pivotal development in strengthening economic and investment ties between Malaysia and South Korea, according to South Korean Ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung Bae.

Speaking to Bernama on the sidelines of the grand opening, Yeo said this investment from SPC Group is a landmark move that not only diversifies Korean business ventures in Malaysia but also signals deeper engagement in the halal industry. 

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“SPC’s investment in building Paris Baguette’s halal food hub is significant for two reasons. Firstly, it represents the diversification of Korean investment in Malaysia beyond traditional sectors like semiconductors and heavy industries. 

“Secondly, it highlights the growing focus on the halal industry as Korean companies seek global expansion," he said.

Yeo noted the halal market is increasingly becoming a strategic focus for Korean companies, driven by the growing demand for halal-certified products in Southeast Asia and beyond. 

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“Many Korean companies, inspired by the global influence of the Korean wave (‘hallyu’), are looking to tap into the Muslim consumer market. 

“With Malaysia being a global leader in the halal industry, we anticipate further collaboration in this sector,” Yeo added.

The ambassador also highlighted Johor’s role as a critical economic hub, attracting significant Korean investments in various sectors. 

“Johor is a key economic destination for Korean businesses. Besides SPC’s halal food hub, approximately 30 Korean companies operate in Johor, spanning industries such as steel, chemicals, and consumer goods,” he said.

Over the years, Korean investments in Johor have expanded beyond heavy industries like steel (Kiswire) and chemicals (Lotte and LG) into consumer-focused businesses, with SPC’s factory being a prime example of this shift. 

Yeo also pointed to the strategic advantages of Johor’s geographical location and strong state-level policies, including the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), as key drivers of future investment. 

“The sectors promoted under JS-SEZ -- advanced technology, green energy, and education -- offer immense potential for South Korea and Johor to collaborate further,” he explained.

Beyond economic investments, South Korea has been deepening its engagement in Malaysia’s halal sector through various initiatives, he said. 

Yeo recalled that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, during his visit to South Korea last year, encouraged South Korean businesses to take a more active role in halal-related ventures. 

“Our embassy has been working towards this goal. In June, we will host ‘Korea Week’ in Kuala Lumpur, featuring a special showcase of halal-certified Korean products, including halal ‘hanwoo’ (Korean beef),” he said.

The ambassador further noted South Korea’s growing participation in MIHAS, Malaysia’s leading halal trade fair, and ongoing cooperation with the Halal Development Corporation and JAKIM on halal certification standards. 

“It would be great to see the Malaysian government offer special incentives to Korean companies looking to expand into the halal sector. 

“With more Korean businesses using Malaysia as a launchpad for the global halal market, this creates a win-win scenario for both nations,” he added.

The grand opening of Paris Baguette’s first halal food hub in Johor, held at Nusajaya Tech Park today, was attended by key dignitaries, including Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

As Malaysia and South Korea commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, Yeo emphasised that bilateral ties have reached a new height with the elevation of relations to a strategic partnership. 

“One of the key outcomes of the Prime Minister’s visit to South Korea last November was reaffirming our commitment to deepening the partnership across political, economic, social, and cultural domains,” he said.

With Malaysia assuming the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 and South Korea chairing APEC this year, Yeo expects increased high-level exchanges between the two countries. 

“A major milestone we are working towards is the conclusion of the Korea-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by 2025.

“Negotiations are progressing steadily, and once finalised, this will deepen economic ties, particularly in green energy, digital transformation, and biotechnology,” he said.

The ambassador also pointed to strong cooperation in the defence sector, including Malaysia’s purchase of 18 FA-50 light combat aircraft from South Korea. 

“This project is progressing smoothly, with over 50 per cent of construction completed.

“It is not just a defence collaboration but also a contribution to Malaysia’s industry through technology transfer and maintenance cooperation," he noted.

Beyond economic collaboration, Johor is home to a growing Korean expatriate community, with approximately 1,300 South Koreans residing in the state, making it the second-largest Korean community in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur. 

“Johor is well known among Koreans for its excellent living and educational infrastructure.

“Our embassy remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents while maintaining close ties with the Johor Korean Association,” Yeo said.

The association actively organises Korean language classes and cultural events, fostering integration and closer ties with the local community. 

“We hope that through such exchanges, Koreans can continue to be good neighbours in Johor,” he added.

-- BERNAMA