KUALA LUMPUR: MAA Group Bhd 's logistics and warehousing unit iSend Logistics Malaysia is partnering Ikobana Sdn Bhd to expand its last-mile delivery service.

       According to a statement issued by iSend, Ikobana is a homegrown courier and freight forwarding services provider with 70 outlets in Peninsular Malaysia.

       Customers using Ikobana's iShop to drop and send off goods can now choose iSend as their last-mile delivery provider and enjoy special rates.

       At the same time, Ikobana will provide the best shipping comparisons from reputable courier companies online and offline to supply-chain customers, which will also save them time in the decision-making process.

       "This strategic partnership between iSend and Ikobana will provide an opportunity for us to demonstrate our position in Malaysia’s first and last mile delivery market.

       "To keep up with the e-commerce boom in Malaysia, iSend will be focusing on partnerships, ramping up investment into technology and strengthening operations. We’ve identified gaps in consumer demand and will be offering exciting and newly improved products and services soon,” said iSend general manager Zamri Rahman.

       He added that iSend plans to expand across Malaysia in the next five years by having at least 99 satellite stations with the support of seven hubs in each region.

       The company currently has six distribution centres and 60 satellite stations in the country, as well as a presence in the Philippines from where it originates.