Every year, Malaysians wait for the Merdeka sales, promos, and those heart-tugging ads that make us go “eh, so creative lah!”.
But let’s be real. Behind every viral TikTok, every “68% OFF” pizza deal, and every WhatsApp blast that makes you hungry at midnight, there is a well-planned Merdeka digital marketing campaign powering it.
This Merdeka 2025, Malaysian brands went all out, and some really nailed it. Here are 5 strategies they used that SMEs can also copy to make their own festive campaigns shine.
Table of Contents
1. SEO – Ranking for Festive Searches
In the lead-up to Merdeka, many Malaysians turn to search engines for deals and activities. This makes Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) services a crucial strategy for visibility. By optimising content for relevant keywords, brands can capture high-intent traffic during peak search periods.
Example: Klook’s 31% Merdeka Flash Sale
Klook didn’t just ride the Merdeka wave on 31 August; they made the celebration feel like theirs.
By launching a 31% OFF flash sale (RM350 min spend, capped at RM70) and optimising their campaign page around keywords like “Merdeka deals 2025 Malaysia,” they made sure anyone searching for “Merdeka promo” would land straight on their site. See Klook’s campaign here.
Lesson for SMEs: Don’t wait for people to stumble onto your promo. Create a landing page or blog that’s Google-friendly with “Merdeka” keywords. Even if you’re just giving RM31 off, the visibility pays off!
2. Social Media Campaigns
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are fertile ground for Merdeka digital marketing campaign virality. Beyond just posting promotions, successful brands use creative content creation and collaborations to engage their audience and encourage sharing.
Example: Inside Scoop’s “Lokal Legends” Ice Creams
Inside Scoop knew Malaysians love two things: ice cream and nostalgia. So they dropped six new Merdeka flavours inspired by local favourites like Beryl’s, Farm Fresh, and Twiggies instantly flooding Instagram feeds and TikTok FYPs.
It’s just not about ice cream. It was about taking pride in Malaysian flavours. And that emotional hook made the campaign go viral.
Lesson for SMEs: Stop thinking “post discount poster, done.” Think collabs, think storytelling. Malaysians will help you share it for free!
Consider a full social media marketing strategy that blends organic storytelling with Facebook ads and Instagram ads for maximum reach.
3. Google Ads & Paid Media
While SEO establishes organic presence, Google Ads and other paid media channels provide immediate visibility, particularly during competitive holiday seasons. This ensures that your Merdeka campaign reaches a broad target audience quickly.
Example: Pizza Hut’s “Jimat-Jimat Merdeka”
Pizza Hut knows Malaysians can’t resist a deal, especially when it’s “68% OFF.” Their Merdeka promo covered pizzas, pastas, melts, and more and was blasted everywhere: dine-in, takeaway, delivery, and most importantly, Google Display ads.
Anyone searching “Merdeka pizza promo” didn’t have to think twice; Pizza Hut’s ad was right on top.
Lesson for SMEs: Organic SEO is efficient, but during festive seasons, competition becomes intense. Secure your spot with Google Ads on high-intent keywords like “Merdeka sales” or “Merdeka buffet deal.”
4. User-Generated Content (UGC)
User-Generated Content (UGC) is a powerful tool for building authentic buzz and trust. When customers become advocates for your brand, it creates a ripple effect that traditional advertising often can’t match. This is a key aspect of influencer marketing, where genuine engagement drives results.
Example: Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park – RM60 Merdeka Tickets
Resorts World Genting pushed a Merdeka ticket promotion: RM60 for Genting SkyWorlds 1-Day Standard Tickets (regular Malaysian price of RM138 online) for a limited time in August, a deal too good not to share.
Visitors flooded their socials with thrilling mountain photos, ride selfies, and scenic views, all filled with Merdeka pride. Affordable thrills plus gorgeous highland views equal natural social media content.
Lesson for SMEs: Run a flash-worthy experience with share-worthy visuals. Even short-term ticket discounts can spark UGC-driven buzz.
Combine this with video making or content marketing to amplify your reach. Your customers’ candid snaps can become your best free ads!
Conclusion
Merdeka 2025 shows that winning campaigns rely on more than just discounts. They depend on how brands use digital channels to connect with Malaysia’s patriotic spirit.
SEO pages help people find you. TikTok collabs get everyone sharing. Google Ads push you to the top. WhatsApp blasts reach pockets instantly. UGC? That’s the buzz that spreads on its own. Together, they all matter.
Big brand or small startup, it doesn’t matter. Mastering Merdeka digital marketing campaigns comes down to three essentials: crafting strategic content, nailing platform-specific promotions, and truly getting what makes Malaysia tick.
Ready to plan your next festive campaign and make your mark this Hari Merdeka?
Promos may come and go, but with Newnormz, your campaigns get the lift they deserve. We craft campaigns that spark conversations, drive clicks, and get all of Malaysia buzzing. Contact Newnormz today!
