Ipoh: The Serai Group is investing RM15 million to establish a food and beverage (FandB) and hospitality hub called Serai Estate in Ipoh, marking its first venture outside the Klang Valley with plans to expand further to Penang and Johor. Group executive chairman Datuk Mohd Najib Abdul Hamid announced that the hub, featuring various FandB concepts along with community and lifestyle areas, will become fully operational by the second quarter of next year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Najib expressed his fondness for Ipoh, citing its unique look and potential as a strategic, yet untapped market. He expressed delight in opening the first Serai outlet outside the Klang Valley in Ipoh. Following the launch of the Serai Estate, the group currently manages 35 branches, including 33 outlets in Malaysia and two Meat Bros steakhouses in London, as well as holding the local franchise for South Korean quick service restaurant brand Lotteria. Their portfolio of homegrown brands comprises Serai, Jibby Chow, Jibby and Co, Jibby By The Park, and Taffy Gelato.
The 1.15-hectare Serai Estate features Serai Restaurant and an event hall, Kelarai Hall, which accommodates 250 to 300 guests for corporate events or weddings. The estate operates with a bungalow concept and showcases local Perak handicrafts, including kelarai and gold-threaded woven fabric. Future offerings at Serai Estate will include Orchid House for afternoon tea, an American-style barbecue restaurant, kopitiam-style breakfast, a premium dim sum dining outlet under the Jibby Chow brand, a greenhouse cafe, and a Taffy Gelato ice-cream outlet.
Mohd Najib mentioned that the substantial RM15 million investment is essential for upgrading and renovation works, as well as mechanical and electrical engineering works to support the high-voltage requirements for the multi-concept restaurant operations. In collaboration with the Perak State Agricultural Development Corporation, Serai Group is also planning the development of a boutique hotel and a nature-based tourism and camping project on three acres in Lenggong within the next two years.
The Serai Group, a family-run hospitality company, traces its roots back to 1990 with the opening of a restaurant in Shah Alam.