You Might Think These 8 Brands Are Malaysian, But They're Actually Not

Some brands just feel undeniably Malaysian, and chances are you've never stopped to think about where they actually came from. They've been sitting in our kitchen cupboards for years, making appearances at breakfast, in school lunchboxes, and during family grocery runs.

But it turns out that some of these household names aren't actually homegrown. From pantry staples to childhood favourites, here are eight brands many Malaysians assume are local, but actually aren't.

1. MILO

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If there's one drink many Malaysians grew up with, it's MILO. However, this iconic chocolate malt beverage actually originated in Australia.

The drink was created by industrial chemist and engineer Thomas Mayne in 1934 during the Great Depression as an affordable and nutritious beverage for families. It was later named after Milo of Croton, a legendary Greek wrestler from the 6th century BC who was renowned for his strength.

2. Maggi

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A student staple and a popular late-night supper choice, Maggi was founded in Switzerland in 1884 by entrepreneur Julius Maggi. In 1947, the brand was acquired by Nestlé, helping it expand its reach across the globe.

Maggi first arrived in Malaysia in 1969 with products such as tomato ketchup and chilli sauce before becoming synonymous with instant noodles in the country.

3. Ribena

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Ribena was developed by scientist Dr Vernon Charley at the University of Bristol, England, in 1938.

During World War II, when food and nutritional supplements were in short supply, Ribena was distributed to children and expectant mothers as a source of vitamin C derived from blackcurrants.

4. Sugus

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Often spotted on supermarket shelves and at petrol stations nationwide, Sugus actually originated in Switzerland in 1931.

The fruit-flavoured chewy candy was developed by the CEO of Suchard, a chocolate company, after he discovered a recipe for a soft, chewy sweet during a trip to Kraków, Poland.

While Malaysians are most familiar with flavours such as blackcurrant, strawberry, and orange, Sugus is also available in varieties like mint, cherry, pear, and peach in other parts of the world.

5. F&N

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One of the most recognisable food and beverage brands in Malaysia, F&N actually traces its roots back to neighbouring Singapore.

The company was founded by John Fraser and David Chalmers Neave, who established the Singapore and Straits Aerated Water Company. In January 1898, the company adopted the name Fraser and Neave, Limited, which later became better known as F&N.

6. Ayam Brand

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Another household name in Malaysia, Ayam Brand was established in 1892 by French entrepreneur Alfred Clouët in Singapore, which was then part of British Malaya.

The company originally operated under the name A. Clouet & Co. and featured a Gallic rooster, a national symbol of France, as its logo.

Shortly before World War II, the brand was renamed "Ayam Brand" because many locals found "Clouët" difficult to pronounce and commonly referred to its canned products as "Chop Ayam" due to the rooster logo.

7. Choki-Choki

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Are you really Malaysian if you've never had a Choki-Choki as a child?

Although the chocolate paste snack is extremely popular in Malaysia, it was actually created in 1985 by Indonesian food manufacturer Mayora Indah.

8. Jacob's

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One of Malaysia's most popular biscuit and cracker brands, Jacob's was founded by Irish brothers William Beale Jacob and Robert Jacob in 1851.

The brand had humble beginnings, with the brothers starting out as small-scale biscuit bakers before their products gained widespread popularity and recognition.

It just goes to show that a brand doesn't have to be Malaysian to feel Malaysian. Whether it's a cup of MILO before school, a late-night bowl of Maggi, or a packet of Jacob's crackers at family gatherings, these products have become deeply woven into everyday life in Malaysia.

Featured Image Credit: The Star, MesBonB