Looking for the best grocery stores in Malaysia? Whether you’re living in Kuala Lumpur, visiting Penang, or exploring Johor Bahru, Malaysia offers a wide variety of supermarkets to meet every shopper’s needs — from budget-friendly hypermarkets to premium grocers.
In this updated 2023 guide, we highlight the top 10 grocery store chains in Malaysia based on popularity, accessibility, and overall shopping experience. We’ve explored these supermarkets firsthand during our travels across the country to give you a comprehensive overview.
📝 Note: Store locations and details may change. Always check the latest updates before your visit.
Table of Contents
1. AEON – One of the Largest Retail Chains in Malaysia
AEON is a household name in Malaysia and across Asia, known for offering everything from groceries to household goods. AEON operates multiple retail formats in Malaysia:
- 35 AEON Stores (Supermarkets)
- 28 AEON Malls (Full shopping centers with AEON supermarkets inside)
- 21 AEON BiG Hypermarkets (Groceries + household items)
- 9 AEON MaxValu Prime (Premium supermarkets)
Available in: Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Perak, Penang, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, Sarawak
2. Cold Storage – Premium Groceries in Urban Hubs
Cold Storage is known for high-quality imported goods and clean store layouts. While smaller in presence, it has prime locations:
- Putrajaya
- Suria KLCC (beneath the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur)
Great for expats and premium shoppers looking for international products.
3. Giant – Affordable Grocery Shopping for Everyone
Founded in Kuala Lumpur in 1944, Giant is one of Malaysia’s oldest and most popular hypermarkets.
- 77 Giant Hypermarkets
- 12 Giant Mini stores (smaller format)
Located throughout Malaysia and also operates in Singapore.
4. Jaya Grocer – Premium Local Supermarket Chain
Jaya Grocer has quickly become one of Malaysia’s favorite high-end supermarkets since launching in 2007. It boasts:
- Over 40 stores in Peninsular Malaysia
- A wide selection of imported goods, fresh produce, and specialty items
Ideal for families and those who enjoy shopping in modern, well-stocked stores.
5. Lotus’s (Formerly Tesco Malaysia)
After acquiring Tesco in 2020, Thailand-based Lotus’s now operates:
- 64 stores in Peninsular Malaysia
This one-stop hypermarket offers groceries, home items, and household essentials at affordable prices.
6. Mercato – Upscale Shopping in Central Locations
If you’re shopping in major cities like Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru, Mercato is a great premium choice.
- 8 locations including:
- Penang (2)
- Johor Bahru (1)
- Kuala Lumpur (5)
Mercato Pavilion in Bukit Bintang is one of its flagship locations.
7. Village Grocer – Trusted by Locals Since the 1950s
Village Grocer started as a small shop in Kuala Lumpur and has expanded into:
- 25 supermarket locations across Selangor, KL, Johor, and Penang
Known for fresh produce, imported goods, and a warm, community feel.
8. Isetan – Japanese Department Store with Gourmet Groceries
Isetan combines high-end retail with curated grocery items, especially Japanese imports.
Kuala Lumpur locations:
- Isetan KLCC (Suria KLCC)
- Isetan The Gardens
- Isetan Lot 10
Perfect for fans of Japanese food and luxury shopping experiences.
9. Ben’s Independent Grocer (B.I.G.) – A Foodie’s Paradise
Launched in 2011, Ben’s Independent Grocer is more than just a grocery store — it’s a lifestyle destination.
- 5 locations in Kuala Lumpur, Johor, and Selangor
- Combines groceries with cafés and restaurants for a full shopping and dining experience
10. Mydin – Malaysia’s Largest Halal Hypermarket Chain
Founded in 1957, Mydin is the go-to destination for affordable and halal products.
- 22 Hypermarket locations in states like Terengganu, Johor, Perak, Selangor, Kedah, Penang, and Melaka
- Known for its wide range of budget-friendly items and halal certification
Final Thoughts: Which Grocery Store in Malaysia is Right for You?
From luxury supermarkets like Mercato and Ben’s Independent Grocer to value-driven chains like Mydin and Giant, Malaysia offers grocery options for every lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re an expat, tourist, or local resident, there’s a perfect supermarket near you.
Have you visited any of these grocery stores in Malaysia? Share your favorites in the comments below!
