Johor: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Yeo noted that 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.
Yeo highlighted that 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. 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, further collaboration in this sector is anticipated.
The ambassador emphasized Johor’s role as a critical economic hub, attracting significant Korean investments. Besides SPC’s halal food hub, approximately 30 Korean companies operate in Johor, spanning industries such as steel, chemicals, and consumer goods. Over the years, investments have expanded beyond heavy industries into consumer-focused businesses, with SPC’s factory being a prime example of this shift.
Yeo also noted 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 collaboration.
Beyond economic investments, South Korea has been deepening its engagement in Malaysia’s halal sector through various initiatives. 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. The embassy will host ‘Korea Week’ in Kuala Lumpur, featuring a showcase of halal-certified Korean products.
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. He expressed the hope that the Malaysian government would offer special incentives to Korean companies looking to expand into the halal sector, creating a win-win scenario for both nations.
The grand opening of Paris Baguette’s first halal food hub in Johor, held at Nusajaya Tech Park, 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 emphasized that bilateral ties have reached a new height with the elevation of relations to a strategic partnership.
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. He noted that a major milestone is the conclusion of the Korea-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by 2025, which will deepen economic ties, particularly in green energy, digital transformation, and biotechnology.
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, highlighting the project’s smooth progress and its contribution to Malaysia’s industry through technology transfer and maintenance cooperation.
Beyond economic collaboration, Johor is home to a growing Korean expatriate community, with approximately 1,300 South Koreans residing in the state. The association actively organises Korean language classes and cultural events, fostering integration and closer ties with the local community. Yeo expressed hope that through such exchanges, Koreans can continue to be good neighbors in Johor.