Global Swedish furniture giant, IKEA, is setting its sights on Sarawak with its first physical store planned in Kuching.
The move signifies more than just the arrival of flatpack furniture as it also means a potential paradigm shift in the local retail landscape.
While an exact opening date, as well as the location of IKEA Kuching remains under wraps, the recent launch of a dedicated e-commerce platform for Sabah and Sarawak, supported by a new IKEA Central Fulfillment Centre in Kuching, signals a clear commitment to the East Malaysian market.
BERNAMA reports that IKEA Malaysia Country Retail Director, Malcolm Pruys as stating that the move is to make home furnishing solutions more accessible to IKEA customers in East Malaysia and enjoy the same affordable prices as those in Peninsular Malaysia.
The report also mentioned that initial step lays the groundwork for the highly anticipated physical store is in works with promise of a tangible IKEA experience for Sarawakians.
About IKEA Kuching’s Central Fulfillment Centre
IKEA launched its Central Fulfillment Centre in Kuching on February 4, 2025.
This new facility marks a pivotal step in IKEA’s expansion strategy in Malaysia, specifically aimed at providing Sabah and Sarawak residents with a more seamless and affordable shopping experience.
Prior to this, East Malaysians often faced higher prices and longer delivery times due to the logistical challenges of shipping from Peninsular Malaysia.
The establishment of this Kuching-based center directly addresses these pain points by streamlining the packing, assembly, and delivery processes for online orders placed through the dedicated IKEA East Malaysia online store (IKEA.my/EMstore).
This initiative ensures that customers in Sabah and Sarawak now have access to a wide range of IKEA’s popular products at the same affordable prices offered in Peninsular Malaysia, coupled with significantly faster delivery times.
The IKEA Central Fulfillment Centre in Kuching is located at Hexagon High Transport in Jalan Demak Laut with customers allowed to either pick up their furniture or get it delivered for a nominal fee.
