For Japanese Residents in KL & Mont Kiara

After Moving to Malaysia,
"Where Do I Buy Thinly Sliced Pork?"
β€” Problem Solved!

Based on real experience, here are the top 3 go-to spots near KL & Mont Kiara where Japanese residents can find thinly sliced pork.

πŸ“… Latest Info for 2026 | Based on Real Experience

The Problem: You Can't Find "Japanese-Style Thinly Sliced Pork" in Malaysia

After moving to Malaysia, one of the most common frustrations Japanese residents run into is: "I can't find thinly sliced pork for shabu-shabu anywhere…"

In Japan, thinly sliced pork belly, loin slices, ginger pork cuts, and shabu-shabu cuts are staples at any supermarket β€” but in Malaysia, they're quite hard to come by.

⚠️ In Malaysia, where the majority of the population is Muslim, pork is handled as a "Non-Halal" product and is typically kept in a dedicated section, even in supermarkets. On top of that, local food culture is centered around whole cuts and bone-in meat, so the paper-thin slices that Japanese cooking calls for are not easy to find.

This article covers everything you need to know β€” based on real experience β€” including where to buy thinly sliced pork in Malaysia, recommended shops near Mont Kiara, how to navigate the TTDI market, tips for ordering shabu-shabu-cut meat without making mistakes, and how to store and thaw it properly.

Top 3 Places to Buy Thinly Sliced Pork in Malaysia β€” KL & PJ Area

1

Meatman Korea

Plaza Mont Kiara

Easy to buy exactly what you need! A Korean butcher shop popular with Japanese residents

A Korean specialty butcher located in Plaza Mont Kiara. Since Korean cuisine also has a strong culture of thinly sliced meat, this shop is a great match for Japanese-style cooking.

Order by gram Shabu-Shabu label available Pork belly & shoulder loin Popular with Japanese residents

Recommended for

  • Those who want to buy only what they need
  • Those making shabu-shabu or meat rolls
  • Those looking for Japanese-style thin slices
View on Google Maps
2

Ko Mart

1 Mont Kiara Level 3

Grab it while you shop! Perfect for beginners

A Korean supermarket on Level 3 of 1 Mont Kiara. Pre-packaged sliced pork is already stocked in the frozen section, so no need to order at a counter.

Pre-packaged for convenience No waiting Pick up while shopping Wide range of Korean groceries

Recommended for

  • Those not confident ordering in English
  • Those who want to save time
  • Those who just moved to Malaysia
View on Google Maps
3

TTDI Wet Market

Lower Ground β€” Non-Halal Area

A local market beloved by those who prioritize meat quality and custom cuts

A wet market well known among Japanese residents in KL. The pork section is not on the Ground Floor but in the Non-Halal area on the Lower Ground level.

Choose while inspecting the meat Specify fat content Ultra-thin shabu-shabu cut available on request Relatively good value

Things to Note

  • TTDI can be quite easy to get lost in
  • Closed on Mondays
  • Effectively morning-only hours β€” stalls start closing before noon
View on Google Maps

At a Glance! Comparison Table of All 3 Spots

Spot Location Features Best For
Meatman Korea Plaza Mont Kiara Order by gram, purpose-specific menu Buying only what you need
Ko Mart 1 Mont Kiara Level 3 Convenient, no counter service needed Beginners & those short on time
TTDI Market Lower Ground β€” Non-Halal Area Inspect meat quality, detailed custom orders Those who want the best quality

Just Saying "Thin Slice" Isn't Enough? Tips for Ordering Shabu-Shabu Meat

This is actually a really important point.

⚠️ In Malaysia, simply saying "Thin Slice" can result in slices that feel quite thick by Japanese standards.
βœ… If you want shabu-shabu-level thinness
It's best to say "Shabu-Shabu slice, please." Your success rate will improve dramatically.

With Thinly Sliced Pork in Malaysia, Thawing Is Critical

Thinly sliced pork in Malaysia is often sliced while partially frozen, so how you thaw it can make a big difference in taste.

βœ… Recommended Thawing Method
  • Transfer to the refrigerator the night before
  • Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture
  • Lightly coat with potato starch (katakuriko)

Just these steps can significantly reduce drip loss, unwanted odor, and dryness.

Conclusion | You Can Absolutely Enjoy Japanese-Style Pork Shabu-Shabu and Ginger Pork in Malaysia

At first, it's easy to wonder "where on earth do I buy thinly sliced pork in Malaysia?" β€” but in reality, there are established go-to spots that Japanese residents regularly rely on.

Summary by Purpose

  • βœ“ Convenience firstγ€€β†’γ€€Ko Mart
  • βœ“ Versatility firstγ€€β†’γ€€Meatman Korea
  • βœ“ Meat quality firstγ€€β†’γ€€TTDI Wet Market

Knowing these three options alone will take a lot of the stress out of cooking at home. Even in Malaysia, enjoy the taste of a Japanese home-cooked meal.

This article is intended for informational purposes only. Shop details are subject to change. Please check directly with each store for the latest information.