Japanese retail giant Aeon is continuing its Malaysian expansion, now entering another five states: Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Sabah and Sarawak.

The retailer, which has 22 shopping complexes and 27 stores in Malaysia, plans to open more stores, undeterred by the impact of inflation and the nation’s rising cost of living.

“We have braved recessions before and will brave them again. When it comes to times like these, we will become more innovative in our services to the public,” said MD Nur Qamarina Chew Abdullah.

“That said, the retail business is very competitive and challenging and the way to go beyond this is to be innovative. The fact that we have been here for 30 years proves our strength in innovation and delivery to the public,” she said.

This year, Aeon plans to open two to three outlets, each costing between RM50 million ($15.2 million) and RM300 million ($91.3 million).

The company, which operates retail brands including Daiso stores, said it plans to introduce more retail brands to the Malaysian market, as well.