(CTN News) – Apple Inc. announced on Wednesday its plans to open the first Apple Store in Malaysia next month, marking a significant expansion of its presence in the Asia region beyond China.
The new store will be situated in The Exchange TRX mall in the heart of the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, and is set to welcome customers starting June 22 at 10 a.m. local time.
This strategic move reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to bolster its footprint in Asia, particularly in markets outside of China, where it faces intense competition from local manufacturers like Huawei.
The tech giant’s recent struggles in China have prompted it to look towards other Asian countries for growth opportunities.
Last year, AAPL inaugurated its first retail outlets in India, a nation that not only serves as a crucial manufacturing base for the iPhone but also represents a burgeoning market that Apple hopes will drive future sales.
The launch of stores in Malaysia follows this trajectory, emphasizing Apple’s commitment to expanding its retail and manufacturing operations across the region.
While Malaysia is not a production site for iPhones, AAPL does manufacture some Mac models locally, reinforcing its investment in the country’s tech ecosystem.
The company already has established retail presences in other Southeast Asian nations, including Singapore and Thailand, which are integral parts of its strategy to tap into the regional market.
Apple’s Strategic Expansion into Southeast Asia:
In Southeast Asia, AAPL is vying for consumer attention against Chinese competitors such as Xiaomi and Oppo, along with its longstanding rival, Samsung.
The opening of the new store in Kuala Lumpur is expected to enhance Apple’s brand visibility and accessibility in Malaysia, providing a premium retail experience and support to its growing customer base.
The launch at The Exchange TRX mall, a premier shopping destination, will likely attract significant interest and footfall, reinforcing Apple’s premium positioning in the market.
As AAPL continues to diversify its geographical focus, the expansion into Malaysia represents a crucial step in its broader strategy to capture a larger share of the Asian market.
Apple fans and tech enthusiasts in Malaysia are eagerly anticipating the opening, which promises to bring the full range of AAPL products and services to the local market, coupled with the company’s renowned customer service and innovative retail environment.
