(From the left) Mohd Sharizan Bin Mansor, Director of Market Institution Division, FAMA; YBrs. Encik Shahrizan Bin Sudiman, Deputy Director General (Food Security & Operations), FAMA; Farhan Ahmad, GCEO, PayNet.
A Digital Leap for Fresh Produce
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 10 (Bernama) -- Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet), in collaboration with the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA), has launched Malaysia’s first-ever grocery vending machine, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of automated retail.
This initiative brings fresh fruits and essential grocery items—including soy sauce, garlic, canned food, and more—directly to consumers through a cashless, contactless, and round-the-clock shopping experience.
Vending machines have rapidly gained popularity in Malaysia, driven by the rise of cashless payments and the demand for 24/7 retail accessibility.
According to industry reports, vending machine adoption has expanded beyond snacks and beverages to include health supplements, skincare items, and fresh produce. This reflects a growing consumer preference for convenient, automated, and touch-free purchasing experiences, particularly in high-traffic locations such as malls, airports, and hospitals.
"Consumers today prioritise convenience, and vending machines are transforming how we access food and groceries. By launching Malaysia’s first grocery vending machine, we are embracing this global trend while integrating digital payments and automation to reshape fresh grocery retail,” said Encik Firdaus Ghani, Senior Director of PayNet’s Government Digitalisation Division.
Innovation in Digital Retail with DuitNow QR
This proof of concept (PoC) will enable FAMA to study consumer behaviour, assess the operational efficiency of vending technology for fresh groceries, and explore future scalability.
The vending machine is fully cashless, accepting payments through DuitNow QR and other digital payment methods, ensuring a seamless and secure transaction process for consumers.
The initiative aligns with PayNet and FAMA’s commitment to digital transformation in agriculture and retail, showcasing how automated grocery vending can enhance accessibility, reduce operational costs, and modernise the way consumers shop for fresh produce.
Future Expansion & Nationwide Rollout
If successful, FAMA plans to scale the initiative by deploying additional vending machines in strategic locations, particularly in areas where access to fresh groceries is limited. To ensure efficiency and sustainability, designated Agrobazaars will manage the restocking and monitoring of the machines, ensuring fresh and essential groceries are always available.
"Vending machines play a crucial role in expanding market access and modernising grocery retail. With this technology, agropreneurs can sell their produce directly to consumers without relying on traditional retail channels, thereby enhancing efficiency and sustainability within the agricultural marketing ecosystem," said Encik Shahrizan Bin Sudiman, Deputy Director-General (Food Security & Operations) of FAMA.
With growing consumer demand for contactless, 24/7 retail solutions, PayNet and FAMA are leading the charge in revolutionising grocery shopping in Malaysia.
About PayNet
Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) is Malaysia's national payments network with a mission to accelerate the country's payment flows by making the digital payment infrastructure more accessible, widespread, and secure. Our comprehensive retail payments suite—including DuitNow (QR and Transfer), JomPAY (Bill Payments), FPX (Online), MyDebit (Domestic Debit), MEPS, and IBG (Interbank GIRO)—provides extensive coverage across the nation, forming a core part of daily life in Malaysia.
Additionally, PayNet's real-time retail QR payments network, DuitNow, is interoperable with domestic schemes in Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia, facilitating seamless cross-border transactions with these countries. PayNet is committed to promoting a secure, efficient, and innovative payments ecosystem in Malaysia and works closely with its stakeholders to develop new products and services that meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses. For further details, please visit our website: www.paynet.my.
About FAMA
The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) was established on 30 September 1965 under Act 141 as a marketing agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. FAMA is responsible for the marketing of agri-food products such as vegetables, fruits, flowers, as well as processed food and agro-based industry products. To drive both domestic and international markets, FAMA plays a crucial role in expanding market size for agri-food products and increasing producers’ income. Additionally, FAMA ensures that agricultural and food industry products remain available and affordable for consumers.
SOURCE: Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet)
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