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As Singapore squeezes, Malaysia tempts F&B operators across the Causeway
Restaurant groups are looking to Malaysia for cheaper space and a longer runway, but operators say lower costs do not make it any easier to crack
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Published Thu, Apr 16, 2026 · 02:00 PM
[KUALA LUMPUR] As the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System link edges closer to launch and focus sharpens on Johor’s next phase of investment-led growth, F&B operators are revisiting a long-held formula: Singapore for stability, Malaysia for savings.
“Singapore gives you reliability but squeezes your margins,” said Pinaki Rath, chief executive of Les Bouchons, a Singapore steakhouse chain best known for its French-style steaks.
“Malaysia gives you margin opportunities, but demands far more patience and market education,” he elaborated in an interview with The Business Times.
