The ML Kitchen (麻辣诱惑), a celebrated homegrown Mala restaurant chain in Malaysia, has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the milestone: Most Mala-Based Items Sold by a Direct-Owned Home-Grown Mala Restaurant Chain Since 2018 (Approx. 1,520,000 items sold, generating RM27.36 million in revenue across 9 outlets)
The official ASEAN Records certificate was proudly presented to Ms. Wu Yu Lian, Founder of The ML Kitchen, and Mr. Puah Chuan Hock, Owner and Managing Director, during the opening ceremony of the brand’s latest 9th outlet at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus.
From China to Malaysia: A Family-Built Mala Legacy
Originally from China, Wu Yu Lian and her sister relocated to Malaysia more than a decade ago to support their children’s education. Surrounded by Malaysia’s rich food heritage, they found inspiration to blend their culinary roots with the country’s multicultural flavours.
For eight years, the sisters quietly honed their recipes — experimenting with spice levels, broths, and textures to perfect a menu that would resonate with both Chinese expats and local diners. In 2018, their journey culminated in the launch of the first 麻辣诱惑 (ML Kitchen) outlet in Wangsa Maju, Kuala Lumpur.
The response was overwhelming. Word-of-mouth quickly spread, and digital buzz helped the brand grow rapidly within its first two years. Today, The ML Kitchen operates nine direct-owned outlets, with a dedicated following that spans students, families, professionals, and food lovers from all walks of life.
Why The ML Kitchen Stands Out in a Competitive Market
In an industry often dominated by shortcuts and pre-mixes, The ML Kitchen stays true to the soul of its cuisine by upholding a strict commitment to freshness and integrity in every dish. Here’s what sets them apart:
- – Authentic slow-boiled bone broth for true depth of flavour
- – No pre-packaged or “synthetic” ingredients
- – No pre-cooked food — every order is fresh and made-to-order
- – Commitment to food safety and quality for all members and guests
This philosophy, rooted in the brand’s belief in “real food, real care,” has not only driven customer loyalty, but also carved out a distinct space for The ML Kitchen as a premium Mala dining experience in Malaysia.
A New Milestone in ASEAN’s Culinary Landscape
Crossing the milestone of 1.52 million Mala-based items sold is more than a commercial achievement — it’s a cultural moment. With its official induction into the ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition, The ML Kitchen now joins the ranks of regional F&B pioneers who are elevating Southeast Asia’s culinary identity through innovation, authenticity, and passion.
This achievement solidifies The ML Kitchen’s role in bringing Mala cuisine into Malaysia’s mainstream food culture, introducing the bold, spicy, and numbing profile of Sichuan flavours to a wider audience while adapting them with local sensibilities.
The recognition celebrates not just business success, but The ML Kitchen’s deeper contribution to ASEAN’s multicultural food evolution.
Visit The ML Kitchen: Where Real Mala Lives
With 9 locations across Malaysia and counting, The ML Kitchen (麻辣诱惑) continues to grow while staying true to the core principles that made it a success: authentic recipes, fresh ingredients, and a passion for people and flavour.
Whether you’re new to Mala or a lifelong fan, visit one of their outlets to experience why The ML Kitchen has become Malaysia’s go-to name for soulful, satisfying, and truly unforgettable Mala. For more information and outlet locations.
