First Indonesian ice cream & tea brand in Malaysia gets JAKIM certification

KUALA LUMPUR, July 31, 2025: Prominent Indonesian ice cream & tea brand Ai-CHA today celebrated official halal certification by JAKIM for its first outlet at Berjaya Times Square here with a firm commitment to have at least five more outlets to be certified halal this year.

Ai-CHA Global Deputy General Manager Danny Tahardi noted that Ai-CHA has become the first Indonesian ice cream and tea brand in Malaysia to receive the halal certification from JAKIM, the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia.

“Even as we scale up our presence in Malaysia, achieving a Malaysian record of opening 300 outlets within 12 months, we put tremendous emphasis on the halal aspect of the business,” he stated, adding that five more outlets were on track towards obtaining halal certification by year-end.

Tahardi shared that more outlets have already begun the process of seeking certification from JAKIM, and this would take time. “Our ingredients are already from halal sources. The process of seeking halal certification is always ongoing for us. This is the cornerstone of our business. We want all consumers to be fully confident they are consuming halal food and drinks when they step into an Ai-CHA outlet,” he added.

Tahardi highlighted the certification reflects more than just regulatory compliance, but rather a significant signpost as Ai-CHA ramps up its journey as a regional lifestyle F&B brand rooted in quality, inclusivity and accessibility.

Echoing this sentiment, Ai-CHA Malaysia Country Manager Jason Chung reaffirmed the brand’s full commitment towards gradually achieving Halal status for all its outlets in Malaysia. It has already been certified halal by the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI) in its home market.

“Halal is at the heart of our brand mission. It’s not only important to our customers, but it also strengthens franchisees’ confidence. We’re here to grow the right way with transparency, consistency and care,” he said.

Halal Committee Chairman of Ai-CHA Malaysia, Encik Zafran Khair, said the company was committed to upholding the standards and requirements of halal compliance set by JAKIM.

“We’re grateful for the trust and confidence of all Malaysian customers. On our end, we’re putting all our resources to ensure proper training down the line for all stakeholders in our pursuit of halal certification for each outlet,” he said.

Ai-CHA has aligned all its operations with JAKIM’s Halal standards, from sourcing ingredients from certified suppliers to staff training and proper handling procedures, Zafran said. A dedicated Halal compliance team has also been established to oversee implementation and ensure consistency as the brand continues to expand.

Chung said the brand’s low-capital franchise model and simplified onboarding process have made it an attractive option for new F&B entrepreneurs, and he believed that Halal certification further enhances its appeal.

“Halal adds another layer of assurance for both customers and potential franchisees. It reflects operational discipline, strong sourcing policies and brand maturity,” Chung added.

Since entering the Malaysian market in 2024, Ai-CHA has grown rapidly to operate 362 outlets nationwide, serving an estimated three million customers monthly.

Ai-CHA was recently recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records (MBR) for its rapid nationwide growth. The brand was awarded two national titles — “Most Ice Cream Chain Stores Opened in a Year” and “Most Beverage Chain Stores Opened in a Year” — after opening 300 outlets within just 12 months, averaging nearly one new store each day. The brand also received the 2025/2026 Consumer Choice Award from the National Consumer Action Council (MTPN), cementing its position as one of the country’s fastest-growing lifestyle F&B brands.

Known for its vibrant soft-serve ice cream, milk teas and seasonal drinks, Ai-CHA has cultivated a loyal following among younger Malaysians for both its flavour innovation and brand aesthetics.

To celebrate the achievement, Ai-CHA is offering a “Buy 1, Free 1” promotion on all menu items from today until Wednesday, 6^th August, at the Berjaya Times Square outlet.

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

“Our goal is to create a brand that resonates deeply with Malaysians,” Chung shared. “This is only the beginning of our journey.”

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