Malaysia’s appetite for premium Japanese beef has reached record-breaking levels with the launch of Wagyu by La Moon, a new restaurant by Zenrich Allied Sdn Bhd (Zenrich Wagyu), which officially opened its doors in Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) last week.
The opening marked a significant milestone, as Zenrich Wagyu, Malaysia’s top supplier of Japanese wagyu beef, was recognised by ASEAN Records for importing the “Largest Annual Volume of Japanese Wagyu in One Year” — a staggering 192,000 kilograms.
The event was officiated by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, who praised the achievement as a reflection of Malaysia’s growing culinary ambitions and robust trade relationships.
“This record is an example of the hard work of Malaysian companies like Zenrich Wagyu, our trade partners, and our commitment to bringing the best of the world to Malaysia,” said Arthur.
He added that “…it also reinforces stronger agricultural trade ties with partners like Japan, apart from building a food culture that is as dynamic as our people.”
Also in attendance was Daisuke Nihei, Minister at the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, who added, “Malaysia’s embrace of Wagyu reflects the strength of our (Malaysia-Japan) partnership. The ASEAN Records achieved by Zenrich Wagyu is a great testament to that strength.”
The accolade is not just a win for the company but a boost for regional food trade and diplomacy. Zenrich’s milestone is seen as part of a broader trend in ASEAN nations where culinary sophistication and consumer demand for authenticity are driving new benchmarks in food imports and hospitality experiences.
The flagship restaurant, Wagyu by La Moon, is now a cornerstone of TTDI’s bustling food scene, offering halal-certified A5 Miyazaki Wagyu crafted into classic dishes like yakiniku, shabu-shabu, and sukiyaki under the stewardship of Japanese chef Saburou Niitsu, who brings 35 years of experience to the kitchen.
“What started as a passion for quality has now become a powerful symbol of connection,” said Zenrich Wagyu director Liven Chong. “We are proud to bring together communities, cultures, and cuisines in the most delicious way possible.”
The restaurant’s all-you-can-eat offering starts at RM199, making high-grade Japanese wagyu more accessible to Malaysian diners. Open until 1 am, the establishment also caters to Kuala Lumpur’s night-time food crowd — a practical touch, especially with basement parking on-site, a rarity in the busy neighbourhood.
From a design standpoint, Wagyu by La Moon balances casual familiarity with polished Japanese aesthetics. In a media statement, Zenrich Wagyu described the restaurant as “a place where everyone’s welcome to dig in and make a bit of a mess, all for the love of good food”.
Japanese minister Niitse declared that “Every dish here is prepared with precision, respect for the ingredients, and the desire to create something truly memorable for each guest.”
With the momentum of Visit Malaysia 2026 building, the restaurant’s launch contributes to the country’s positioning as a culinary destination in the region. As more travellers seek authentic, globally-inspired food experiences, Zenrich’s success underscores the increasing relevance of food as a form of cultural diplomacy.
Zenrich Wagyu’s achievement not only cements its place in Malaysia’s culinary evolution but also signals ASEAN’s growing taste for premium, cross-border gastronomy.
For more information, visit zenrichallied.com or follow Wagyu by La Moon on Facebook and Instagram. 