A RECORD 1,100 guests gathered for the Malaysia Retail Chain Association’s (MRCA) Chinese New Year “Golden Spring of Giving” celebration.
Held in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the gala brought together retail entrepreneurs and key policymakers to toast to a year of growth, digital transformation and community impact.
A pivotal moment was the MRCA graduation ceremony, which celebrated the professional advancement of 105 industry practitioners from MRCA member companies across five specialised batches.
Guest-of-honour Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo highlighted that the intersection of technology and retail was a strategic necessity for the modern economy.
“The retail industry is currently at a digital crossroads.
“To remain competitive, businesses must move beyond traditional models and embrace an artificial intelligence-driven ecosystem.
“By integrating advanced data analytics and seamless digital payment infrastructures, Malaysian retailers can unlock personalised customer experiences that drive loyalty,” he said.
“Our ministry is dedicated to ensuring the retail sector has the digital backbone required to lead in the regional economy,” said Gobind.
Echoing these sentiments, MRCA president Datuk Ken Phua emphasised the association’s role in steering its members toward a sustainable and technology-savvy future.
“We recognise that the strength of the Malaysian retail sector lies in its agility.
“MRCA remains the bridge between traditional retail values and the digital frontier.
“Our core focus is on enabling our members to integrate new technologies and boost operational efficiency,” said Phua.
“This ensures that Malaysian retail is consistently recognised for its innovation and commitment to world-class service,” he added.
At the same event, MRCA Branding Education Charity Foundation chairman Datuk Liaw Choon Liang announced the distribution of the MRCA Student Encouragement Fund.
The foundation presented cheques totalling RM40,800 to 47 outstanding students, recognising the academic achievements of children of employees within MRCA member companies.
The event, which also featured yee sang tossing session and performances by a live orchestra, concluded with a lucky draw and a renewed sense of unity among the retail community.
Also present were MRCA President’s Council members Datuk Seri Nelson Kwok and Datuk Eddie Choon, immediate past president Datuk Sharan Valiram and MRCA board of advisors member Tan Sri Barry Goh Ming Choon.
