Most Singaporeans don't realise our neighbour up north has been quietly building a franchise empire for over three decades, and 2026 might be the biggest edition yet.

We sit down with Kairul Azman Mohd Yusoh, Secretary General of the Malaysia Franchise Association, at the Marrybrown Sentosa flagship to unpack why FIM (Franchising International Malaysia) 2026, happening 21–23 May at KLCC, is officially the longest-running franchise event in the region.

We're talking 150+ companies, 250+ exhibitors, and a 70/30 local-international mix.

From homegrown icons like Marrybrown (45 years strong), Manhattan Fish Market, US Pizza, Global Art and Smart Readers, to the National Franchise Policy 2030 with its five strategic pillars, this is a masterclass in how a country systematically scales SMEs into global brands.

If you've ever wondered whether franchising is a smart, lower-risk way to start a business, this conversation is your starter pack. Watch now.

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🎧 The Financial Coconut:

Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

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⚠️ Disclaimer:

The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After nearly a year of conversations with founders, creators, and entrepreneurs, the TFC Business Show is wrapping up its current format.

But before we move into the next phase, we’re looking back at the most memorable stories, unexpected insights, and biggest lessons from the journey.

From founders who built businesses from scratch to creators turning passion into thriving ventures, this episode reflects on what it really takes to build something meaningful.

Expect honest reflections, behind-the-scenes moments, and a few unfiltered thoughts about entrepreneurship.

🔔 What’s Next

The TFC Business Show isn’t ending—it’s evolving into something new.

Make sure to follow the show so you don’t miss the next chapter.

If you enjoy conversations about business, founders, and entrepreneurship, like the video and subscribe for more.

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🎧 The Financial Coconut:

Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

📍 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE

• Spotify
• Apple Podcast
• YouTube

🔗 CONNECT WITH US

Get daily tips, insights, and community:

• Instagram
• TikTok
• Telegram
• Whatsapp
• Newsletter

📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORK

Discover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube

⚠️ Disclaimer:

The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can technology make seasonal food available all year round without losing its freshness?

We sit down with Christopher Quek, VC, entrepreneur, and founder of Spike Durian, to explore how a simple obsession with durian led to an unexpected startup opportunity.

After two decades investing in startups, Christopher decided to jump back into the arena. What followed was a fascinating journey into food technology, AI-assisted freezing methods, and building a new kind of durian business.

From finding suppliers in Malaysia to launching the company in just three months, this episode dives deep into the entrepreneurial mindset behind spotting opportunities others overlook.

But the conversation goes far beyond durian.

We explore:

• What investors really look for in startups
• The challenges of commercializing new technology
• How founders test product-market fit
• The surprising customer segment that embraced this idea
• And why Southeast Asia might be the next big growth story for entrepreneurs

If you're a startup founder, SME owner, investor, or just curious about how businesses are built, this episode is packed with insights.

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🎧 The Financial Coconut:

Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

📍 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE

• Spotify
• Apple Podcast
• YouTube

🔗 CONNECT WITH US

Get daily tips, insights, and community:

• Instagram
• TikTok
• Telegram
• Whatsapp
• Newsletter

📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORK

Discover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube

⚠️ Disclaimer:

The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.