McDonald’s Malaysia plans to invest RM1bn ($254m) over the next five years, with the rollout of 100 new restaurants forming the core of its expansion strategy, according to The Borneo Post (Sabah).

The investment will also focus on upgrading existing outlets and enhancing its technology and digital platforms.

McDonald's Malaysia managing director and local operating partner Datuk Azmir Jaafar said the plan aligns with the company’s long-term strategy for the country and its aim to build a “future-ready Malaysian workforce” while expanding its nationwide network.

Jaafar said: “Of the RM1bn, RM600m will be allocated for new restaurant openings, RM200m for refurbishing and modernising more than 150 existing McDonald’s Malaysia restaurants, and another RM200m for technology and digitalisation initiatives.”

Azmir spoke at a press conference held after the reopening of McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru at Jalan Pahang, the first McDonald’s drive-through in Malaysia.

The outlet has resumed operations with a new identity as the country’s first Luna concept restaurant and the second such outlet in Asia.

Jaafar said McDonald’s Malaysia will continue to grow its footprint in Sabah and Sarawak, as well as across Peninsular Malaysia, particularly in high-demand and tourism-led locations.

The company also plans to widen its franchise network. It now has 25 franchised outlets operated by 11 franchisees nationwide.

Over the next five to ten years, it is targeting between 70 and 100 franchised restaurants.

The expansion is projected to create more than 10,000 additional jobs.

Jaafar adds: “Every restaurant we open stimulates local economic activity and creates employment opportunities, not only within our restaurants but also across supporting sectors such as logistics, renovation, equipment supply, cleaning and security services.”

McDonald’s Malaysia currently operates more than 370 restaurants nationwide.