Latest news with #CHAGEE
The Star
02-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
From toys to milk tea, Chinese brands widen market share in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR: Chinese brands continue to widen their share of the consumer market in Malaysia, with strong and growing demand for a range of products from milk tea to designer toys. Just a brief walk around the capital Kuala Lumpur, one can easily spot outlets of China's beverage giant Mixue, milk tea chain CHAGEE, and Luckin Coffee -- a leading Chinese coffee brand. Cherishing food and beverages, Malaysians have flocked to these chains and flooded local social media channels with glowing reviews. Meanwhile, other items, such as Pop Mart -- a popular Chinese toy company known for its blind box collectibles, particularly the Labubu character -- are also rapidly gaining ground. Besides the ubiquitous presence of Chinese-developed smartphones and other consumer electronics, these collectibles have become a global sensation, highlighting the strong competitiveness of Chinese-developed intellectual property (IP) in the open market, while also showcasing culture and creativity. A GROWING CULTURAL PHENOMENON At Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a major shopping center in the bustling tourist district in Bukit Bintang, signs indicate that the latest Labubu figurines are completely sold out, highlighting the surging popularity of Chinese cultural products in Malaysia and the enthusiasm they're generating among local youth. Among those visiting was Chong Man Hen, who had come especially to Kuala Lumpur to visit the store as he is an enthusiastic collector of figurines that combine traditional designs with a modern look. "I tend to collect products with traditional Chinese-style designs," he told Xinhua. "What makes these Chinese designer toys special is that they help bridge the gap between us and traditional Chinese aesthetics -- it gives a quick idea of what the character is about. Plus, being mini figures, they're especially appealing to me." "People around the world can be exposed to Chinese history and culture through (these products), and it's an easy way to understand more. When brands come in, like the traditional-style CHAGEE, I'm happy to try their products and it's nice that we don't have to go all the way to China to experience them. We can enjoy the same things here in Malaysia," he said. Inside a nearby CHAGEE outlet, a group of young girls were placing drink orders on their phones, while unboxing blind boxes from Pop Mart. Their anticipation of finding a rare edition spoke volumes about the emotional connection these collectibles have sparked. Scenes like this -- pairing Chinese-style beverages with trendy cultural goods -- have become increasingly common across Kuala Lumpur. UNIQUE PRODUCTS WITH A WIDE APPEAL These cultural products are also contributing to the local economy, drawing interest not just from Malaysians but also international visitors. Esther Yong, a university student and avid collector, noted that people from countries without access to Pop Mart are now traveling to Malaysia just to get their hands on the figurines. "I think (Chinese products) help Malaysia's economy," she said. "I've seen quite a few foreigners come to Malaysia to buy Pop Mart (products) -- some even take entire boxes home. I think it's beneficial for the economy." Esther also suggested that the retailer expand its product line to appeal to the interests of collectors like herself. "Chinese cultural elements are definitely a plus point for me ... Personally, I really like ancient Chinese elements, like the traditional costumes in Empresses in the Palace. If a series with that kind of style were released, I'd love it," she said. Meanwhile, Sharon Mendoza, a tourist from Mexico, said that she had first encountered the figurines in Pop Mart while visiting China and has kept an eye out for them on her subsequent travels. "There is no such brand in Mexico ... If there was a Pop Mart store, I would visit there like every weekend," she said with a laugh. "Everywhere I know there is a Pop Mart store, I would like to go, because I like to gift these toys to my family and my friends." The rise of Chinese brands in Malaysia is more than a commercial trend, but part of a broader cultural shift. Whether through designer toys, food and beverage chains, or cinematic experiences like animated films, China's creative industries are finding resonance among global audiences. "We're seeing the growing power of Chinese IPs," said a local cultural analyst. "More importantly, we're seeing how Chinese culture is being reimagined, localized, and embraced by new audiences around the world." - China Daily/ANN
Malaysia Sun
01-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysia Sun
From toys to milk tea, Chinese brands widen market share in Malaysia
Chinese brands like Mixue, CHAGEE, Luckin Coffee, and Pop Mart -- known for its blind box collectibles -- are captivating global markets, showcasing the power of China's homegrown IP through cultural innovation and technological agility. by Jonathan Edward, Wang Jiawei, Cheng Yiheng KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese brands continue to widen their share of the consumer market in Malaysia, with strong and growing demand for a range of products from milk tea to designer toys. Just a brief walk around the capital Kuala Lumpur, one can easily spot outlets of China's beverage giant Mixue, milk tea chain CHAGEE, and Luckin Coffee -- a leading Chinese coffee brand. Cherishing food and beverages, Malaysians have flocked to these chains and flooded local social media channels with glowing reviews. Meanwhile, other items, such as Pop Mart -- a popular Chinese toy company known for its blind box collectibles, particularly the Labubu character -- are also rapidly gaining ground. Besides the ubiquitous presence of Chinese-developed smartphones and other consumer electronics, these collectibles have become a global sensation, highlighting the strong competitiveness of Chinese-developed intellectual property (IP) in the open market, while also showcasing culture and creativity. A GROWING CULTURAL PHENOMENON At Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a major shopping center in the bustling tourist district in Bukit Bintang, signs indicate that the latest Labubu figurines are completely sold out, highlighting the surging popularity of Chinese cultural products in Malaysia and the enthusiasm they're generating among local youth. Among those visiting was Chong Man Hen, who had come especially to Kuala Lumpur to visit the store as he is an enthusiastic collector of figurines that combine traditional designs with a modern look. "I tend to collect products with traditional Chinese-style designs," he told Xinhua. "What makes these Chinese designer toys special is that they help bridge the gap between us and traditional Chinese aesthetics -- it gives a quick idea of what the character is about. Plus, being mini figures, they're especially appealing to me." "People around the world can be exposed to Chinese history and culture through (these products), and it's an easy way to understand more. When brands come in, like the traditional-style CHAGEE, I'm happy to try their products and it's nice that we don't have to go all the way to China to experience them. We can enjoy the same things here in Malaysia," he said. Inside a nearby CHAGEE outlet, a group of young girls were placing drink orders on their phones, while unboxing blind boxes from Pop Mart. Their anticipation of finding a rare edition spoke volumes about the emotional connection these collectibles have sparked. Scenes like this -- pairing Chinese-style beverages with trendy cultural goods -- have become increasingly common across Kuala Lumpur. UNIQUE PRODUCTS WITH A WIDE APPEAL These cultural products are also contributing to the local economy, drawing interest not just from Malaysians but also international visitors. Esther Yong, a university student and avid collector, noted that people from countries without access to Pop Mart are now traveling to Malaysia just to get their hands on the figurines. "I think (Chinese products) help Malaysia's economy," she said. "I've seen quite a few foreigners come to Malaysia to buy Pop Mart (products) -- some even take entire boxes home. I think it's beneficial for the economy." Esther also suggested that the retailer expand its product line to appeal to the interests of collectors like herself. "Chinese cultural elements are definitely a plus point for me ... Personally, I really like ancient Chinese elements, like the traditional costumes in Empresses in the Palace. If a series with that kind of style were released, I'd love it," she said. Meanwhile, Sharon Mendoza, a tourist from Mexico, said that she had first encountered the figurines in Pop Mart while visiting China and has kept an eye out for them on her subsequent travels. "There is no such brand in Mexico ... If there was a Pop Mart store, I would visit there like every weekend," she said with a laugh. "Everywhere I know there is a Pop Mart store, I would like to go, because I like to gift these toys to my family and my friends." The rise of Chinese brands in Malaysia is more than a commercial trend, but part of a broader cultural shift. Whether through designer toys, food and beverage chains, or cinematic experiences like animated films, China's creative industries are finding resonance among global audiences. "We're seeing the growing power of Chinese IPs," said a local cultural analyst. "More importantly, we're seeing how Chinese culture is being reimagined, localized, and embraced by new audiences around the world."
Borneo Post
01-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
From toys to milk tea, Chinese brands widen market share in Malaysia
Customers visit a Pop Mart store in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 18, 2025. – Xinhua photo KUALA LUMPUR (July 1): Chinese brands continue to widen their share of the consumer market in Malaysia, with strong and growing demand for a range of products from milk tea to designer toys. Just a brief walk around the capital Kuala Lumpur, one can easily spot outlets of China's beverage giant Mixue, milk tea chain CHAGEE, and Luckin Coffee — a leading Chinese coffee brand. Cherishing food and beverages, Malaysians have flocked to these chains and flooded local social media channels with glowing reviews. Meanwhile, other items, such as Pop Mart — a popular Chinese toy company known for its blind box collectibles, particularly the Labubu character — are also rapidly gaining ground. Besides the ubiquitous presence of Chinese-developed smartphones and other consumer electronics, these collectibles have become a global sensation, highlighting the strong competitiveness of Chinese-developed intellectual property (IP) in the open market, while also showcasing culture and creativity. A growing cultural phenomenon At Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a major shopping center in the bustling tourist district in Bukit Bintang, signs indicate that the latest Labubu figurines are completely sold out, highlighting the surging popularity of Chinese cultural products in Malaysia and the enthusiasm they're generating among local youth. Among those visiting was Chong Man Hen, who had come especially to Kuala Lumpur to visit the store as he is an enthusiastic collector of figurines that combine traditional designs with a modern look. 'I tend to collect products with traditional Chinese-style designs,' he told Xinhua. 'What makes these Chinese designer toys special is that they help bridge the gap between us and traditional Chinese aesthetics — it gives a quick idea of what the character is about. Plus, being mini figures, they're especially appealing to me.' 'People around the world can be exposed to Chinese history and culture through (these products), and it's an easy way to understand more. When brands come in, like the traditional-style CHAGEE, I'm happy to try their products and it's nice that we don't have to go all the way to China to experience them. We can enjoy the same things here in Malaysia,' he said. Inside a nearby CHAGEE outlet, a group of young girls were placing drink orders on their phones, while unboxing blind boxes from Pop Mart. Their anticipation of finding a rare edition spoke volumes about the emotional connection these collectibles have sparked. Scenes like this — pairing Chinese-style beverages with trendy cultural goods — have become increasingly common across Kuala Lumpur. Unique products with a wide appeal These cultural products are also contributing to the local economy, drawing interest not just from Malaysians but also international visitors. Esther Yong, a university student and avid collector, noted that people from countries without access to Pop Mart are now traveling to Malaysia just to get their hands on the figurines. 'I think (Chinese products) help Malaysia's economy,' she said. 'I've seen quite a few foreigners come to Malaysia to buy Pop Mart (products) — some even take entire boxes home. I think it's beneficial for the economy.' Esther also suggested that the retailer expand its product line to appeal to the interests of collectors like herself. 'Chinese cultural elements are definitely a plus point for me … Personally, I really like ancient Chinese elements, like the traditional costumes in Empresses in the Palace. If a series with that kind of style were released, I'd love it,' she said. Meanwhile, Sharon Mendoza, a tourist from Mexico, said that she had first encountered the figurines in Pop Mart while visiting China and has kept an eye out for them on her subsequent travels. 'There is no such brand in Mexico … If there was a Pop Mart store, I would visit there like every weekend,' she said with a laugh. 'Everywhere I know there is a Pop Mart store, I would like to go, because I like to gift these toys to my family and my friends.' The rise of Chinese brands in Malaysia is more than a commercial trend, but part of a broader cultural shift. Whether through designer toys, food and beverage chains, or cinematic experiences like animated films, China's creative industries are finding resonance among global audiences. 'We're seeing the growing power of Chinese IPs,' said a local cultural analyst. 'More importantly, we're seeing how Chinese culture is being reimagined, localized, and embraced by new audiences around the world.' Chinese brand consumer market malaysia share
Malaysia Sun
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Malaysia Sun
Feature: From toys to milk tea, Chinese brands widen market share in Malaysia
by Jonathan Edward, Wang Jiawei, Cheng Yiheng KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese brands continue to widen their share of the consumer market in Malaysia, with strong and growing demand for a range of products from milk tea to designer toys. Just a brief walk around the capital Kuala Lumpur, one can easily spot outlets of China's beverage giant Mixue, milk tea chain CHAGEE, and Luckin Coffee -- a leading Chinese coffee brand. Cherishing food and beverages, Malaysians have flocked to these chains and flooded local social media channels with glowing reviews. Meanwhile, other items, such as Pop Mart -- a popular Chinese toy company known for its blind box collectibles, particularly the Labubu character -- are also rapidly gaining ground. Besides the ubiquitous presence of Chinese-developed smartphones and other consumer electronics, these collectibles have become a global sensation, highlighting the strong competitiveness of Chinese-developed intellectual property (IP) in the open market, while also showcasing culture and creativity. A GROWING CULTURAL PHENOMENON At Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, a major shopping center in the bustling tourist district in Bukit Bintang, signs indicate that the latest Labubu figurines are completely sold out, highlighting the surging popularity of Chinese cultural products in Malaysia and the enthusiasm they're generating among local youth. Among those visiting was Chong Man Hen, who had come especially to Kuala Lumpur to visit the store as he is an enthusiastic collector of figurines that combine traditional designs with a modern look. "I tend to collect products with traditional Chinese-style designs," he told Xinhua. "What makes these Chinese designer toys special is that they help bridge the gap between us and traditional Chinese aesthetics -- it gives a quick idea of what the character is about. Plus, being mini figures, they're especially appealing to me." "People around the world can be exposed to Chinese history and culture through (these products), and it's an easy way to understand more. When brands come in, like the traditional-style CHAGEE, I'm happy to try their products and it's nice that we don't have to go all the way to China to experience them. We can enjoy the same things here in Malaysia," he said. Inside a nearby CHAGEE outlet, a group of young girls were placing drink orders on their phones, while unboxing blind boxes from Pop Mart. Their anticipation of finding a rare edition spoke volumes about the emotional connection these collectibles have sparked. Scenes like this -- pairing Chinese-style beverages with trendy cultural goods -- have become increasingly common across Kuala Lumpur. UNIQUE PRODUCTS WITH A WIDE APPEAL These cultural products are also contributing to the local economy, drawing interest not just from Malaysians but also international visitors. Esther Yong, a university student and avid collector, noted that people from countries without access to Pop Mart are now traveling to Malaysia just to get their hands on the figurines. "I think (Chinese products) help Malaysia's economy," she said. "I've seen quite a few foreigners come to Malaysia to buy Pop Mart (products) -- some even take entire boxes home. I think it's beneficial for the economy." Esther also suggested that the retailer expand its product line to appeal to the interests of collectors like herself. "Chinese cultural elements are definitely a plus point for me ... Personally, I really like ancient Chinese elements, like the traditional costumes in Empresses in the Palace. If a series with that kind of style were released, I'd love it," she said. Meanwhile, Sharon Mendoza, a tourist from Mexico, said that she had first encountered the figurines in Pop Mart while visiting China and has kept an eye out for them on her subsequent travels. "There is no such brand in Mexico ... If there was a Pop Mart store, I would visit there like every weekend," she said with a laugh. "Everywhere I know there is a Pop Mart store, I would like to go, because I like to gift these toys to my family and my friends." The rise of Chinese brands in Malaysia is more than a commercial trend, but part of a broader cultural shift. Whether through designer toys, food and beverage chains, or cinematic experiences like animated films, China's creative industries are finding resonance among global audiences. "We're seeing the growing power of Chinese IPs," said a local cultural analyst. "More importantly, we're seeing how Chinese culture is being reimagined, localized, and embraced by new audiences around the world."
Independent Singapore
27-06-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Singaporean says he supports 'foreign F&Bs over locals,' gets mixed reaction from netizens
SINGAPORE: A Singaporean recently stirred up debate online after saying he supports foreign-run food and beverage (F&B) outlets over local ones. In a post on the r/SingaporeRaw subreddit, he pointed out how people often complain about the increasing number of foreign F&B brands popping up all over Singapore. But from his perspective, they actually bring 'better food and service' to the table than most local places. He then gave a few examples. One of them was CHAGEE, a popular chain selling Chinese-style milk tea. 'CHAGEE — their milk tea is far superior to typical Sinkie brands, which often taste like cheap, overly sweetened syrup with zero innovation.' Another favourite of his is Bahmi, a Vietnamese spot near his home that he says serves big portions of meat for just $7. He praised the value for money, the consistent quality, and the warm service. 'The pretty Vietnamese girl at the counter always greets customers with a warm smile. It's become my go-to breakfast place.' He went on to criticise the service standards at many local establishments, saying that staff often come across as 'moody or disengaged'. 'If you've travelled abroad often, you'd realise how underwhelming service in Singapore's local F&B scene can be,' he continued. 'You'll see middle-aged women or older aunties frowning as they serve, barely making eye contact. Some even display subtle passive-aggressive behaviour, like slamming your tray, mumbling under their breath, or giving a cold stare if you take too long to order. It's as if you're bothering them just by being there.' 'Hawker food used to be cheap and good; now most aren't either.' Unsurprisingly, the post drew mixed reactions. Some commenters agreed, saying that customer service in Singapore can be hit or miss and that foreign F&B brands do tend to 'try harder' because they're new and need to build a customer base. One wrote, 'Some of these foreign F&B provide better value, like free napkins, free-flow rice and sky juice. Most local estab charges for these and they add up.' Another said, 'Only Sinkies stuck in SG would buy into how wonderful the local food scene is. Maybe it used to be, but no longer. Hawker food used to be cheap and good; now most aren't either. And I can't think of a local F&B brand that is worth the hype.' A third added, 'Aside from f&b some stores can have really snobbish or rude af staff like idk what's gotten into some of them.' Others, however, pushed back. They pointed out that many so-called 'local' F&B places actually hire foreign staff too, so blaming bad service on the fact that it's a local brand isn't exactly fair. One commenter explained, 'Most staffs are Malaysians and rarely they are locals. Anyway, not just our FnB is lacking in service even retail. You go to places like Miniso and similar shop the staff will walk away as you get closer to them and some pretend they are busy. I don't expect them to acknowledge me, but as a customer, I will still be turned off by this behaviour.' In other news, a jobseeker recently shared on Reddit that he had a strange and uncomfortable experience during the hiring process with a local SME. Posting on the r/askSingapore forum on Wednesday (Jun 25), the jobseeker said the company asked him to bring his payslip to the very first interview, which already felt like a 'red flag.' During the interview, the hiring manager also mentioned that overtime was 'very normal' in their company, which added to his concerns. But the biggest surprise came after the interview. The HR representative told the jobseeker that if another company offered him a higher salary, the SME would not proceed with the hiring. They also said that if he wanted a written offer, he would need to 'verbally commit' first and reject all other job opportunities he was considering. Read more: 'Is this normal?' SG jobseeker puzzled after SME asks for payslip and verbal commitment without written offer Featured image by Depositphotos (for illustration purposes only)
