From Frozen Beginnings to Global Tables: LKT Food Industries’ Journey Beyond Borders

From modest beginnings as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), LKT Food Industries Sdn. Bhd. has grown into a respected name in the global halal frozen food industry. Its journey reflects the potential of Malaysian enterprises to scale internationally through innovation, product quality, and a strong commitment to sustainability and good governance.

Operating within Malaysia’s vibrant food manufacturing ecosystem, LKT has steadily transformed itself into a leading producer of frozen pastries and ice cream for both domestic and international markets. Guided by a clear mission to deliver tasty, healthy, affordable, and high-quality products, the company has expanded its footprint while remaining anchored to its core values of excellence and integrity.

LKT’s operational strength is supported by its strategically located 60,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Johor, close to Johor Port, Pasir Gudang, and the Port of Singapore. This advantageous location enables efficient cold-chain logistics, a critical necessity for frozen food exports. Complementing its infrastructure is the company’s unwavering commitment to quality assurance, reinforced by internationally recognised certifications such as JAKIM Halal, KKM HACCP, VHM, and the Malaysia Brand. These credentials have strengthened consumer confidence and unlocked access to halal-sensitive global markets, reinforcing Malaysia’s reputation as a trusted halal hub.

International exposure has been another key driver of growth. Through active participation in international trade fairs and exhibitions in Singapore, China, Thailand, Japan, Timor Leste, and Indonesia, LKT has built strong distribution networks and forged meaningful partnerships. Today, its products reach consumers in China, Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The company’s ability to offer OEM and private-label solutions has proven essential in meeting diverse market requirements while sustaining long-term global collaborations.

At the heart of LKT’s long-term strategy is the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, now a business necessity rather than an option. Environmentally, the company has invested in solar power systems and energy-efficient production lines for cleaner logistics. Socially, LKT places strong emphasis on employee welfare, workplace safety, skills development, and community engagement through charity initiatives, food aid, and educational sponsorships. These efforts are reinforced by strong governance practices, supported by clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that ensure transparency, compliance, and ethical conduct.

Like many exporters, LKT faces ongoing challenges, including complex international regulations, logistics constraints, foreign exchange volatility, and intense global competition. However, through strategic partnerships, operational efficiency, and continuous innovation, the company has built resilience and a solid reputation as a trusted Malaysian food manufacturer.

LKT’s experience offers valuable insights for aspiring exporters. Its journey highlights the necessity of maintaining uncompromising product quality, securing internationally recognised certifications, and building efficient logistics and reliable partnerships. Equally important is the ability to innovate in branding, market positioning, and digital engagement, while embedding ESG values into core business strategies. LKT demonstrates that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.

This success has been further supported by Malaysia’s pro-business ecosystem, particularly through facilitation by the MIDA. Targeted incentives, including tax allowances and import duty exemptions on machinery and equipment, alongside strategic engagement to enhance ESG practices, have enabled LKT to improve productivity, upgrade technology, and meet growing global demand.

Looking ahead, LKT remains focused on entering new export markets while deepening its sustainability agenda. By continuing to align innovation, operational excellence, and ESG-driven growth, the company is well positioned to contribute to Malaysia’s ambition of becoming a global halal and sustainable food powerhouse.