Perak’s retail sector is poised for transformation with the introduction of Sunway Ipoh Mall, a RM1 billion development set to open in the fourth quarter of 2027. The new shopping destination aims to meet the growing demand for diverse retail and leisure options among local consumers who often travel to the Klang Valley for a wider selection.
Currently 80% leased, Sunway Ipoh Mall will house 400 retail outlets across 1.2 million square feet of net lettable area spread over four floors. More than 100 shops will feature brands making their first appearance in Perak, including seven anchor tenants such as Mr DIY Plus, Parkson Elite, Sunway Ice Rink, Sunway Ipoh Exhibition Centre, Sunway Megalanes, Village Grocer, and TGV Cinemas.
Sunway Malls group managing director HC Chan highlighted the scarcity of Tier 1 malls in Perak and noted that many residents travel up to three hours to Klang Valley to access broader retail options. He expressed confidence in the mall’s prospects, referencing strong sales performance at Sunway Carnival Mall in Seberang Jaya, Penang, which recorded higher sales per square metre in 2026 than Sunway Pyramid in Petaling Jaya.
In addition to anchor tenants, the mall will introduce several other retailers new to the state, such as Muji, LC Waikiki, and TopTen10. Established brands including Brands Outlet, Decathlon, Estee Lauder Companies, Harvey Norman, JD Sports, L’Oreal Group, Padini, Uniqlo, and Valiram Group will also make up the tenant mix. Chan indicated that a quarter of the retail brands would be new to Perak and that local food offerings will be available to complement the shopping experience.
Situated within Sunway City Ipoh, the mall will be located near prominent landmarks including Sunway Medical Centre, The Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat, and Lost World of Tambun, benefiting from both local patronage and tourism. Sunway Malls Northern Region chief executive officer Chai Wen Yew emphasized that the mall’s location within the 546-hectare township, which currently has a gross development value (GDV) of RM2 billion and plans for an additional RM4 billion investment over the next 10 to 15 years, will enhance its appeal.
The wider Sunway City Ipoh master plan includes developments such as Sunway University, a hotel, and a convention centre, supporting ongoing township expansion. Sunway Malls currently operates 11 shopping centres nationwide and has plans to open five more within the next three years, expanding its portfolio to 16 properties. The company reported a 98% occupancy rate across its malls, with sales increasing by 5% year-on-year in the first half of 2026. Upgrades or renovations have been carried out on 435 shops covering 850,000 square feet as of September.
