KUALA LUMPUR, 25 September 2026 – The Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) hosted its prestigious Installation & 34th Anniversary Night on 25 September 2026 at the Sunway Resort Hotel. The biennial occasion marked the formal transition of leadership with the installation of the new MRCA Council for the 2026–2028 term, while commemorating 34 years of the association’s contributions to Malaysia’s retail industry.
The event was graced by YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), as the Guest of Honor, joining 1,000 attendees comprising MRCA Council Members, retailers, business leaders, corporate partners, and distinguished guests.
The focal point of the evening was the official transition of leadership. In the presence of YB Hannah Yeoh, a symbolic Key Handover Ceremony took place between Immediate Past President Datuk Dr. Ken Phua and the newly installed MRCA President for the 2026–2028 term, Dato’ Liew Bin.
In his inaugural address, Dato’ Liew Bin unveiled his strategic vision for the association’s future, centered around a newly minted tagline. “Our ultimate vision for this term is to establish MRCA firmly as ‘The Home of Retailers’,” stated Dato’ Liew Bin.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that MRCA remains a nurturing, inclusive hub where retail businesses of all sizes can find immense value, build meaningful connections, and continuously grow together in this dynamic market.” said Liew Bin
Delivering her keynote address, YB Hannah Yeoh commended MRCA’s impressive 34 year legacy and its ambitious “Member Get Member” initiative, which aims to grow its base to 1,000 members and represent over 10,000 businesses through strategic affiliations.
She also emphasized the critical synergy between the government and the retail sector in driving urban economic growth. “The MADANI government is deeply committed to ensuring dynamic and sustainable economic development,” said YB Hannah Yeoh.
“The Ministry, alongside DBKL and Putrajaya Corporation, is continuously working to streamline licensing and regulatory processes to cut red tape for retail openings and operations. By implementing these pro-business policies, we aim to create a highly livable city and a win-win ecosystem where businesses and retailers can thrive side-by-side with the community.” said YB Hannah Yeoh.
The event also featured a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) exchange ceremony between MRCA and Lark Technologies Pte. Ltd., sealing a strategic collaboration to advance AI-powered digital transformation across the Malaysian retail industry.
The evening also celebrated MRCA’s foundational strength within the Malaysian economy. The association currently represents 600 members and over 40,000 outlets locally and internationally, playing a pivotal role in providing more than 400,000 job opportunities.
The grand celebration concluded with a special recognition of the corporate patrons and sponsors who made the event possible.