Mydin to spend RM1b on new hypermarkets

Mydin to spend RM1b on new hypermarkets
By Roziana Hamsawi Published: 2008/09/18

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LOCAL hypermarket operator Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd will invest close to RM1 billion to open eight new hypermarkets in Malaysia in the next two years.

Owner and managing director Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin said each store will cost the group some RM120 million. Four stores will be opened next year and the remaining stores in 2010.

Mydin currently has 42 outlets, comprising 24 emporiums, two hypermarkets, nine mini markets, five 24-hour convenient stores and two superstores.

"With our expansion, opportunities are aplenty for more and more small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their products through our stores," said Ameer.



Last year, Mydin spent RM60 million buying various goods and products from a total of 500 Bumiputera SMEs, and this year the value is expected to increase by about 20 per cent.

Ameer was speaking to reporters in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, after signing a memorandum of understanding with the Halal Industry Development Corp (HDC) on halal training programme to be provided by HDC to Mydin's local vendors or SMEs.

Signing on behalf of HDC was its chief executive officer Datuk Seri Jamil Bidin. The signing was witnessed by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi.

Under the programme, HDC, in the first year, will train 300 trainees from Mydin's own SMEs in the Klang Valley and the subsequent years will see the training being expanded to other states.

"We want to help local SME entrepreneurs to equip themselves with the right knowledge and confidence in managing and producing their halal-based products," said Ameer, adding that this will strengthen and boost the capacity of local SMEs in the local and global halal industry.

The halal training programmes will provide the SMEs with the right skills to become competitive halal players and comprise three modules namely halal awareness, halal industry and halal professional.

Jamil said such programmes are part of HDC's efforts to turn Malaysia into the preferred global halal support and reference centre.

"It will also boost Mydin's position as a leading provider of halal products that are wholesome and safe for consumption and usage, thereby ensuring that their customers receive the highest standards in quality and safety," he said.