Bumbu Babah Expands Operations To Melaka With 33rd Outlet

MELAKA, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- Modern Nusantara cuisine restaurant brand Bumbu Babah is strengthening its foothold in Malaysia’s food franchise market with the opening of its 33rd outlet on Jalan Hang Tuah,  marking Melaka as its latest strategic location for business expansion.

The first outlet in Melaka, which has been operating for three months, was established through a strategic collaboration between Analynsda Holdings Sdn Bhd and Babah Ventures Sdn Bhd, the main operator of the Bumbu Babah restaurant chain nationwide.

Celebrity and co-founder of the authentic Minang cuisine, Ajak Shiro, said the choice of Melaka was not merely to expand investment and brand presence but also to elevate Nusantara’s culinary heritage as a new attraction for food tourism in the historic state.

"Melaka is close to my heart — I have many memories here. When I started my business, I made sure Melaka was one of the states where I would open an outlet, given its potential to attract large numbers of tourists.

"So when we opened in Melaka, it wasn’t just about launching another restaurant, but about reviving a rich culinary heritage that’s deeply rooted in the local community — indirectly positioning it as a new destination for both domestic and international tourists to enjoy authentic Nusantara flavours," he told reporters after the launch ceremony, which was officiated by Melaka State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Ibrahim Durum here tonight.

Ajak said the Melaka franchise also creates job opportunities for local residents and supports the state government's efforts to enhance gastronomy-based tourism products.

“We are planning to open another outlet, possibly near the beach. This expansion is not only about growing our operations but also about creating more employment and contributing to the state's economic development.

"So far, this branch is expected to receive over 15,000 visitors in its first month of operation," he said.

He noted that Bumbu Babah now operates 34 outlets nationwide, with all dishes prepared at a central kitchen certified halal by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) to ensure strict quality and hygiene standards.

By the end of this year, the company aims to have 42 outlets operating nationwide, including in the East Coast, Sabah, and Sarawak.

"This move further strengthens Bumbu Babah’s position as one of the key players in Malaysia’s modern Nusantara restaurant franchise industry," he added.

--BERNAMA