KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 25 -- IKEA Malaysia has confirmed that its first store in East Malaysia will open its doors in Kuching this December, marking a significant expansion into Sarawak after years of serving the state solely through e-commerce and delivery.

IKEA Malaysia revealed that the new outlet will be the retailer's first small-format store, building on IKEA's existing e-commerce and fulfilment presence in the state. IKEA Kuching will become the company's fifth physical store in Malaysia, joining IKEA Damansara, IKEA Cheras, IKEA Tebrau and IKEA Batu Kawan.

Unlike the brand's larger existing outlets, IKEA Kuching will adopt a small-format concept designed around convenience, allowing customers to browse room settings and home furnish...