JS-SEZ home to South Korean bakery chain’s first global halal hub facility
03 Mar 2025
A RENOWNED brand has opened its first global halal food hub in Johor catering to growing worldwide demand for quality halal bakery products.
The move also aims to strengthen the supply chain of Paris Baguette, owned by South Korean food and confectionery conglomerate SPC Group.
The opening of the facility was attended by Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, South Korea ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung Bae and SPC Group chairman Hur Young-in.
Named the Paris Baguette Regional Halal Food Hub, the new facility reflects a commitment towards international standards in hygiene, safety and quality.
Malaysia’s halal certification process, recognised as one of the most stringent in the world, underscores SPC Group’s dedication towards the highest standards in food production.
“Food is more than just what we eat – it is a way to share culture, identity and traditions.
“Today’s grand opening is more than just the expansion of our presence.
“It symbolises our commitment to building strong connections with local communities, creating job opportunities and fostering collaboration,” said Young-in.
Onn Hafiz pointed out the facility’s positive socio-economic impact, “This hub will strengthen Johor’s role within the Johorsingapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and provide employment opportunities, contribute to the local economy and enhance Malaysia’s reputation as a global leader in halal food production.”
Malaysian Investment Development authority (Mida) chief executive officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh abdul Majid said the facility cemented Malaysia’s status as the epicentre of global halal food manufacturing and exports.
“SPC Group’s investment endorses Malaysia’s world-class halal ecosystem and its role in fuelling global demand for halal-certified products.
“This cutting-edge hub strengthens Paris Baguette’s foothold in Malaysia and serves as a springboard for its expansion across South-east asia, the Middle East and australia.
“Backed by JS-SEZ and the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre, Malaysia continues to stand as the preferred destination for halal-focused investments.
“This drives economic growth, job creation and innovation,” he said.
The facility represents a Rm260mil investment and includes seven advanced production lines capable of producing 100 million bakery products per year.
Thanks to the JS-SEZ, the new hub enjoys seamless connectivity to both local and international markets.
SPC Group president Hur Jin-soo expressed excitement over Paris Baguette’s new chapter in its global expansion, “This facility allows us to serve our customers worldwide with greater efficiency and consistency.
“From this strategic location in South-east Asia, we can reach key global markets faster and more effectively.”
Source: The Star
