PROSPECTS

Malaysia has secured a strong position in the global furniture industry, consistently ranking among the world’s leading exporters, 12th worldwide, based on CSIL data. This position is supported by modern production facilities and a skilled workforce, which contribute to maintaining quality consistency and enabling scalable production.

A key strength of Malaysia’s furniture sector is its ability to produce both mass-market items and furniture for specific project needs, of customised contract furniture for sectors like hospitality, offices, and public spaces.

Manufacturers have embraced modern production technologies and committed to sustainable practices. This includes leveraging national certifications like the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), which helps meet increasing global demand for eco-friendly products. Recent global dynamics have influenced Malaysia’s market standing. Post-pandemic changes have increased demand for home and office furniture.

In this context, Malaysia’s furniture is appealing due to its established balance between cost and quality in both mid-range and premium markets. Furthermore, U.S.-China trade tensions have prompted many buyers to diversify their sourcing, creating new opportunities for alternative suppliers such as Malaysia. Malaysian manufacturers are evolving their business models. They have progressively moved beyond Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to embrace Original Design Manufacturer (ODM) and Original Brand Manufacturer (OBM) models. This involves investment in design, branding, and market research. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce and penetration into emerging markets, particularly in India, Africa, and Southeast Asia, are considered promising areas for future development.

According to CSIL data, Malaysia has become the second-largest exporter to India, Singapore, and the Philippines. The country is also listed among the top five importers for numerous Asia-Pacific nations, including Thailand, Japan, Cambodia, Australia, and New Zealand, and for several countries in the Middle Asian region, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Georgia.

STRENGTHENING MALAYSIA’S ROLE IN THE GLOBAL FURNITURE MARKET

The Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) 2025 reaffirmed its position as a landmark furniture trade event in Southeast Asia, strengthening its role as a key sourcing platform for international buyers. Held from 1 to 4 March 2025 across the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) and the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), the fair hosted 742 exhibitors from a diverse range of countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, India, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States, reflecting a 3.8% increase on the previous edition.

With an estimated on-site sales value of USD 1.31 billion, MIFF 2025 highlighted the sector’s growing commercial momentum and sustained buyer confidence. The event welcomed 19,556 trade visitors from 120 countries and regions, including 5,606 international buyers, a 3.4% increase from the previous year, with notable growth from North America, Europe, and key Asian economies. Sustainability and digital innovation were key themes: the enhanced MIFF Furniverse 2.0 platform enabled smarter matchmaking and supported eco-conscious operations. Feedback from both returning and first-time participants emphasised MIFF’s vital role in connecting global supply chains and opening new export opportunities.

RECOGNISING PRODUCT EXCELLENCE

As part of its commitment to promoting excellence in design and innovation, MIFF 2025 hosted three key awards: the MIFF Furniture Design Competition, the Best Presentation Award, and the Furniture Excellence Award.

Once again, CSIL was invited to join the international judging panel for the Furniture Excellence Award, alongside furniture professionals, university professors, and industry journalists. The Furniture Excellence Award was established to recognise product innovation and quality, encouraging designers to create furniture that is original, aesthetically appealing, creative, and forward-looking. Entries were assessed against a comprehensive set of criteria, including material usage, marketability, creative concept, aesthetics, design impression, quality, ergonomics, safety, construction, and sustainability. Inspiwood Furniture was awarded the Platinum Award, while Yun Ming Wood Industries received the Gold Award, and Sundesk Venture secured the Silver Award. In addition, two Judges’ Commendation Awards were presented: Guangdong Bsuc Smart Home was recognised for its office furniture, and Sin Lian Lee Manufacturing for its home furniture.

The new edition of MIFF 2026 is scheduled for 4–7 March 2026. More at www.miff.com.my

---

Source: CSIL World Furniture Magazine #06, June 2025

• Browse the Magazine https://www.worldfurnitureonline.com/editorial/world-furniture-magazine-06-2025
• Discover all issues at https://www.worldfurnitureonline.com/magazine