JOHOR BAHRU, 12 November 2025: The Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (PRESMA) is actively planning to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) and comprehensive digital systems across its member outlets nationwide, aiming to significantly reduce its long-term dependence on foreign workers.
PRESMA President, Datuk Mohamed Mohsin Abdul Razak announced the association is currently negotiating with technology providers for “A-to-Z” restaurant management solutions, which include digital ordering and automated payment features. This digitalization drive, affecting approximately 12,000 mamak restaurants, aligns with government calls for the local food industry to modernize service delivery.
Digital Transition Faces High Costs and Low Acceptance
While the proposed digital systems would boost operational efficiency in managing orders, inventory, and staff performance. The transition is hampered by two immediate challenges:
- High Cost: The complete restaurant management systems carry a substantial price tag.
- Customer Preference: PRESMA noted that customer acceptance for existing digital ordering methods, such as QR codes, remains low, as many local customers still prefer traditional face-to-face service.
Mohamed Mohsin estimated that member operators will require between five and 10 years to fully transition without disrupting daily business operations.
PRESMA Requests Interim Foreign Worker Approvals
Given the lengthy timeline for full digitalization, PRESMA is requesting that the government temporarily facilitate the approval for hiring foreign workers as an essential interim measure. The association dismissed claims that it is unwilling to hire Malaysians, citing a very low interest among locals for jobs within member restaurants.
“While waiting for the full implementation of AI and digital systems, we still need enough foreign workers to continue operating,” said Mohamed Mohsin, pointing out that the foreign worker replacement system has been frozen since 2019.
