Selecting a fragrance is a personal indulgence. While designer perfumes dominate the market, niche fragrances often offer a distinctive and exclusive alternative.
Crafted in small batches, these artisanal scents often feature rare and precious ingredients. The global fragrance market is experiencing substantial growth and is projected to reach US$43.2 billion by 2028 [1].
While established brands hold a substantial market share, Malaysia’s OEM perfume industry is also gaining prominence. Its expertise in high-quality oud oil and agarwood-based fragrances serves as the foundation for both local and international markets.
To foster the growth of this domestic industry, it is essential to support local brands. This article highlights 10 Malaysian perfume houses worthy of attention.
1. Auphorie
Auphorie is a Malaysian perfume house renowned for its exquisite, handcrafted fragrances. This award-winning atelier is dedicated to creating olfactory masterpieces using natural extracts.
The brand seamlessly blends diverse fragrances that cater to various tastes and preferences with collections that often draw inspiration from Malaysian heritage, culture, and natural beauty.
Notably, Miyako, a 2016 Art and Olfaction Award winner, enchants with a delightful opening of juicy peach, vibrant yuzu, and sweet apricot.
2. Bahfamsn Fragrance
Bahfamsn Fragrance is an artisanal perfume house hailing from the lush landscapes of North Borneo, Malaysia.
Founded by Sonali Said and Kriss Mokhtar, the brand is renowned for its handcrafted perfumes, which are made in small batches using natural ingredients.
With a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing, the brand offers a unique olfactory journey through the heart of Malaysia.
3. De’Xandra
De’Xandra is a leading halal-certified Malaysian perfume brand renowned for its captivating scents and exceptional quality.
Crafted with care using parabens and methanol-free ingredients, De’Xandra offers a diverse range of fragrances to suit every preference.
De’Xandra perfumes are widely available online and in various retail stores throughout Malaysia.
Want to craft your own perfume brand? Read our article on ‘How to Start a Perfume Business in Malaysia’.
4. Josh Lee Fragrances
Josh Lee Fragrances is a Malaysian perfume brand celebrated for its unique and captivating scents.
Through a partnership with Firmenich, the brand features premium natural ingredients to create fragrances that are both distinctive and long-lasting.
Iconic creations includes George Town, which encapsulate the spirit of Penang by evoking notes of salt air with citrus aromatic fragrance, transforming the city’s essence into a wearable fragrance.
Committed to ethical practices, Josh Lee Fragrances utilises Halal-certified, IFRA-approved ingredients and is steadfastly animal cruelty-free.
You can buy their perfume from their official website here.
5. Malay Perfumery
Malay Perfumery is a rising star in the world of niche fragrances, proudly showcasing the heart and soul of Malaysia through its scents.
This artisanal fragrance house combines the rich heritage of Malay culture with a blend of French perfumery, resulting in a unique and captivating scent.
Amongst their popular offerings, Fatima stands out as a delicate and feminine fragrance infused with enchanting notes of jasmine and sandalwood.
6. nōbəl sociəty
Awal Ashaari, a prominent Malaysian figure, has introduced nōbəl sociəty, a new fragrance line. The inaugural scent, HOMAGE, was created in collaboration with his wife, Scha Alyahya.
Designed for a unisex audience, HOMAGE features a powdery floral top note of bergamot that transitions into a rich cedarwood base.
This versatile fragrance is perfect for everyday wear and can be purchased online through the nōbəl sociəty Shopee store.
7. OLFAC3
OLFAC3’s fragrances are inspired by Malaysian heritage, people, places, and experiences. Aien Mokhtar creates unique and luxurious halal scents accessible to a broader audience.
Based on their online presence and customer reviews, their fragrances, like Matahari, have often received positive feedback for their sunny and uplifting character.
Ideal for daily use, their fragrances can be effortlessly incorporated into your routine.
Halal cosmetics are booming! Discover how this growing market is changing the beauty industry. Read our article: Beauty with Belief: Exploring the Need of Halal Cosmetics!
8. AGift With Care
AGift With Care, a Penang-based fragrance brand, shines among Malaysia’s top perfume brands for its captivating scents and commitment to spreading kindness and positivity.
Since 2010, the brand has artfully blended perfumery with a mission of selfless generosity, creating fragrances that uplift spirits and foster meaningful connections.
A standout in their collection is the best-seller Steel Magnolia, inspired by strong, independent Southern US women and featuring top notes of Bergamot, Pear, and Blackcurrant.
Discover AGift With Care perfume collection at their website here.
9. Rirana Parfume
InstagramRirana Parfume is a pioneering force in Malaysia’s fragrance industry, proudly claiming the title of the country’s first handcrafted niche fragrance house.
Founded in 2017, the brand has quickly gained a reputation for its gender-neutral scents and environmentally friendly ingredients, kind to the skin.
Amongst Rirana’s popular offerings, Vanilla Tobacco stands out as a fan favourite, blending sweet and warm notes for a captivating aroma.
10. Sugar Bomb
Sugar BombSugar Bomb Perfume is a popular choice among Malaysians seeking affordable yet delightful fragrances.
They offer a variety of fragrances to suit different preferences. However, their current best-seller is Morning Daisy, known for its jasmine-floral fragrance with a touch of pomegranate.
Sugar Bomb perfumes are widely available in Malaysia through online and offline retailers. Popular platforms like Shopee and Lazada offer a wide selection of Sugar Bomb fragrances.
Create Your Own Perfume with Eng Kah
These brands are shaping Malaysia’s perfume landscape with their innovative formulas and deep understanding of popular local scents.
If you’re interested in starting your fragrance line, you should consult industry professionals about the design and manufacturing of your products.
With over 55 years of experience, Eng Kah is Malaysia’s leading OEM and ODM perfume manufacturer.
Our portfolio includes esteemed multinational corporations, top brands, and leading hypermarkets.
From manufacturing to private-label solutions and Halal-certified OEM products, we provide high-quality OEM perfume products tailored to our client’s brand.
Additionally, we specialise in crafting personal care, skincare, colour cosmetics, and home care products.
Get in Touch with Eng Kah Today!
FAQ
1. What are some scents that are popular among men?
Selecting the perfect men’s fragrance involves several factors. Wood-based scents, such as wood, cedarwood, sandalwood, and oakmoss, are especially popular. Consider the occasion, opting for lighter scents during the day and bolder options for evening events.
2. Which perfume ingredients are considered non-halal?
While many perfumes are considered halal, certain ingredients can render them non-halal. Common non-halal ingredients include some animal and alcohol-based substances.
You can send us an inquiry to enquiry@engkahp.com.my. Our experts are well-versed in the Halal certification process and can guide you through each step to ensure your products meet all necessary standards.
3. What sets Malaysian perfumes apart from others?
Malaysia is renowned for its high-quality oud oil and agarwood, which are precious perfume ingredients harvested from infected tropical trees [2].
References
- Ou, C. C. & Chuang, S. H. (2023). Exploring the factors that influence consumers to purchase perfume products. International Journal of Professional Business Review, 8(5), 01-18. https://dialnet.unirioja.es/descarga/articulo/8956941.pdf
- Tan, C. S., Isa, N. M., Ismail, I., & Zainal, Z. (2019). Agarwood Induction: Current Developments and Future Perspectives. Frontiers in plant science, 10, 122. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2019.00122
