Ai-CHA sets Malaysian record of 300 stores within a year

Danny Tahardi (2nd from left), Ai-CHA Global Deputy General Manager, and Jason Chung (right), Ai-CHA Malaysia Country Manager, with the Malaysia Book of Record awards presented by Aaron Bong (left) and Siti Hajar binti Johor, Malaysia Book of Records Officials. 

Kuala Lumpur, 19 June 2025 - Prominent Indonesian ice cream & tea brand Ai-CHA has opened 300 outlets within 12 months in Malaysia, averaging almost a new store each day, an achievement that has been officially recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records (MBR).

MBR awarded Ai-CHA the “Most Ice Cream Chain Stores Opened in a Year” and “Most Beverage Chain Stores Opened in a Year” titles.

On top of that, Ai-CHA also received the 2025/2026 Consumer Choice Award from the National Consumer Action Council (MTPN). This award, presented by MTPN deputy president Prof. Jericho Tang Kit Wai, is bestowed after an independent audit of its store quality, customer satisfaction and operational standards.

Danny Tahardi, Ai-CHA Global Deputy General Manager, and Jason Chung (right), Ai-CHA Malaysia Country Manager, with the 2025/2026 Consumer Choice Award from MTPN, presented by Prof. Jericho Tang Kit Wai (left), Deputy President of MTPN. 

Ai-CHA is celebrating this milestone with a four-day “Ai-CHA Love You 300X” event at Fahrenheit 88, Bukit Bintang, which began today featuring an array of interactive brand activations and giveaways, including a unique display of 300 adorable penguin figurines — a nod to Ai-CHA’s playful brand identity and its cheerful mascot, CACHA.

An elated Vincent Ong, country director of Ai-CHA Malaysia, attributed this outstanding achievement to strong local support and a “highly accessible” franchise model.

“We managed to reach every corner of Malaysia in such a short time, from big cities to smaller towns, and we’re happy to receive such warm reception wherever we open. Our story is a shining example of how passion, market understanding and innovation can power such a remarkable journey.

“These multiple accolades re-affirm our commitment to quality and affordability,” said Ong.

Danny Tahardi (in batik shirt), Ai-CHA Global Deputy General Manager, together with 11 Ai-CHA Country Managers from Asia and Africa during “Ai-CHA Love You 300X” event at Fahrenheit 88, Bukit Bintang.

Ai-CHA’s rapid expansion has been driven by a low-capital franchise model, with entry-level investment starting from under RM100,000. Its backend systems and simplified franchise onboarding have allowed franchisees to set up quickly, contributing to the brand’s fast footprint growth nationwide.

With drinks and ice creams priced between RM2 and RM7, the brand appeals especially to young adults, families and price-conscious consumers. Its best-selling items include the Sea Salt Ice Cream, Ai-Shake Mango Cup and Supreme Mix Milk Tea.

“Our pricing makes it possible for more people to enjoy our treats, from the cities to the small towns,” Ong said.

Following its record-setting expansion, Ai-CHA is now eyeing more suburban and semi-urban locations, especially in East Malaysia, where Ong believed there was good demand with fewer brands competing.

The company’s first outlet in Berjaya Times Square is halal-certified by JAKIM, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia. Other stores are in various stages of seeking certification. Ai-CHA has been certified halal by MUI Indonesia in its home market.

Looking ahead, Ai-CHA plans to introduce additional hot snacks, such as fried chicken and French fries, at selected outlets, positioning itself as a casual snacking destination.

To further celebrate the record-setting achievement, Ai-CHA Malaysia will be giving away a limited edition “My Malaysia Magnet Collection” starting 30 June 2025, available with every RM15 receipt. The collection features 13 fridge magnets representing Malaysia’s 13 states, each designed with iconic state symbols such as Mt Kinabalu and Rafflesia for Sabah. This collection also symbolises Ai-CHA’s extensive coverage throughout Malaysia.

Deputy General Manager of Ai-CHA Global, Danny Tahardi, expressed: “We are honoured and grateful to receive this recognition. This recognition affirms our unwavering dedication to excellence in the competitive F&B industry. As we celebrate this achievement, it pushes us to work harder to maintain our position as a trusted name in both local and international markets.

“This recognition belongs to every Ai-CHA fan and team member nationwide. Achieving 300 stores within a year is a proud accomplishment, and we’re grateful to our customers for making it possible. We look forward to bringing more sweet moments to Malaysians in the years ahead,” he adds.

“Ai-CHA Love You 300X” event featured a unique display of 300 adorable penguin figurines — a nod to Ai-CHA’s playful brand identity and its cheerful mascot, CACHA.

Visitors to the event enjoyed exclusive merchandise giveaways, mascot photo opportunities, and food sampling sessions with a brand partner. The public was encouraged to snap photos with Ai-CHA’s lovable mascot, CACHA and post on social media with the hashtag #AiCHA300Stores for a chance to win limited-edition merchandise.

Prior to today’s celebration event, Ai-CHA organised its 300X Celebration Tour, making its way across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak and delighting fans nationwide with free ice cream, mascot appearances and interactive activities.

“We’re building a brand that Malaysians can connect with,” Ong remarked. “And we’re just getting started.”

Ai-CHA currently operates in 9 countries, with the other countries being Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, the Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Brunei.