Gardenia began in 1969 when an American was sent to East Malaysia to start a bakery. Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn Bhd was formed and rolled out its first loaf of bread in 1986, becoming the market leader within four years with near 100% brand recall. The company is now owned by Malaysian businessman Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar Shah and produces various baked goods while also focusing on health and charitable causes through partnerships with organizations like NADI.