Exciting Opening Ceremony of Tsukishima Monja Koboreya in Malaysia

Tsukishima Monja Koboreya's Grand Opening Celebration in Malaysia

On June 23, 2026, the long-awaited opening ceremony of Tsukishima Monja Koboreya was held in Kuala Lumpur, marking the first international branch of the popular Monja restaurant brand from Tokyo, Japan. This exciting event, hosted by delta, the parent company, featured notable guests including Maomi Yuki, a well-known personality in Malaysia, and members of KLP48, a local idol group.

The Vision Behind the International Expansion by Delta's CEO

The ceremony commenced with a heartfelt speech by Ken Saku Nakamura, CEO of delta, who emphasized their mission: "We are not merely bringing Monja to Malaysia; we aim to introduce the unique food culture of Tokyo. In a country that values time spent with family and friends, we believe this experience will resonate greatly. We are committed to ensuring our restaurant becomes a beloved establishment for all."

A Special Appointment Ceremony for Maomi Yuki as an Ambassador

Following Nakamura's opening remarks, Maomi Yuki joined the stage as the newly appointed ambassador of Koboreya Monja. In a touching moment, Nakamura presented her with a special oversized Monja spatula, symbolizing her role in promoting this unique culinary art. Yuki shared her joy: "Experiencing Japanese culture here in Malaysia feels nostalgic and heartwarming. I hope many people will enjoy Monja as it is truly a unique Japanese dish."

Reflecting on her childhood experiences in her family's Chinese restaurant, she noted the importance of food as a unifying force among people. "Sharing delicious meals creates happiness and fosters connections," she added.
During the ceremony, she recounted her first taste of Monja as a university student and expressed her excitement about the authentic Japanese cuisine that Koboreya offers in Malaysia, saying, "I am looking forward to enjoying genuine Japanese food here."

Engaging Performances and Celebrations

The event proceeded with a vibrant tape-cutting ceremony featuring KLP48's Yi Shyan and Mashiro, which ushered in a Lion Dance performance, a traditional Malaysian art celebrating prosperity. The rhythmic beats of the drums amplified the festive atmosphere as guests and performers came together to celebrate the grand opening.

The excitement continued with a live cooking demonstration of Monja, showcasing the preparation of this delectable dish right before the audience's eyes, generating a lively, interactive experience. Notably, KLP48 member Alice participated in adding broth to the dish, capturing the attention of Maomi Yuki, who expressed her admiration for the cooking skills on display.

A Unique Culinary Experience with Local Considerations

As the cooking performance concluded, it was time for the taste test. Nakamura explained the significance of the broth, stating, "We meticulously redesigned our broth to respect the local culinary context, ensuring it is free of pork to cater to our Malaysian customers' dietary preferences."
Maomi Yuki was particularly impressed with the flavor of the new Mentaiko Mochi Monja, exclaiming, "I’m thrilled to enjoy authentic Monja here in Malaysia!" Mashiro, the only Japanese member of KLP48, not only enjoyed the dish but also promised to return with her fellow members, emphasizing the allure of authentic Japanese cuisine available at Koboreya.

Event Highlights and Location Details

The grand opening ceremony brought together influential figures, including Daisuke Nihei from the Japanese embassy, Hiroshi Narukawa from the Malaysian Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JACTIM), and other notable dignitaries from Mitsui Real Estate.

For those interested in visiting, Tsukishima Monja Koboreya is located within the Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport BBCC in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur. The restaurant is set to officially open on June 27, 2026, and provides a seating capacity of about 70 guests.

This new establishment signifies a vibrant fusion of Japanese culture and Malaysian hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists eager to experience the authentic flavors of Tokyo’s beloved Monja.

For more information, check out their official website here.