OVER the past few years, TikTok Shop has emerged as a platform for local brands to connect with audiences and grow their businesses.
From small businesses to beloved homegrown staples, these "made-in-Malaysia" brands are thriving thanks to the platform's unique tools and reach.
STARTING FROM ZERO
EmpatBeranak is a homegrown brand that crafts premium home fragrances, designed to bring the luxurious essence of five-star hotel rooms into everyday living spaces.
"We began with no followers, no big capital and no savings. Our TikTok Shop account wasn't a choice, it was a necessity," shared EmpatBeranak's founders.
To their surprise, the brand's first batch of 100 bottles sold out quickly, fuelled by EmpatBeranak's TikTok Shop content that resonated with viewers. From there, they started livestreaming and that's when business grew — reaching 134,000 followers.
Today, the brand has expanded its line with the exclusive Penthouse Series, bringing luxury scents to Malaysian homes.
"TikTok Shop has helped me reach more customers through livestream, content and ad support," they added.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
For local skincare brand Healez, the journey began during the pandemic when mask-related acne became a widespread concern. The founders pivoted from offering facial services to creating their first product, the Acne Corrective Hydrating Serum, designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
"Our business began with live sessions and packing orders from home as a small team of less than five people. Fast forward three years, we've grown significantly on TikTok Shop with over seven products in our lineup," shared its founder.
Their latest innovation, LipBlossom, a collaboration with NL Alchemist, is more than just a lip gloss — it is a treatment that nourishes, plumps and brightens the lips while enhancing their natural beauty.
Healez credits TikTok Shop for helping the brand connect directly with a vibrant community.
"Through live sessions and creative content, we've seen incredible growth in reach, sales and customer trust," added the founder, who noted an impressive 192 per cent Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) growth during the brand's recent 11.11 sales.
GROWING A COMMUNITY
TikTok Shop has also become a place for established brands like Farm Fresh Milk Malaysia to expand their digital presence. Starting from scratch, the brand grew its TikTok following to over 200,000 within two years.
Farm Fresh Milk Malaysia leveraged exclusive deals, bulk carton offers and engaging live sessions to captivate new audiences while achieving 251 per cent GMV growth during its recent 11.11 campaign period.
"We chose to sell on TikTok Shop to reach a younger, online-savvy audience who loves discovering products through engaging, fun content," shared a Farm Fresh Milk Malaysia representative.
"While we're still available in stores, TikTok offers a unique way to connect directly with consumers, drive impulse buys through exclusive deals and build a community around our brand."
For these brands and many others, TikTok Shop has become a platform for storytelling, community building and growth. Discover more homegrown brands on TikTok Shop and support the #JOMLOKAL movement.