KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19 — Thousands of Malaysians answered Ikea’s call to “get Cheras to Cheras,” thronging the Swedish home furnishing giant’s second and latest branch here.

Crowds of excited shoppers began lining up at the entrance from as early as 7am, and swelled further by 8am, before the doors were finally opened around 9.15am.

The number of people converging on the branch in Jalan Cochrane also caused the usual morning traffic in Bulatan Kampung Pandan to be worse than usual.

“Ikea Cheras is a dream come true for most Malaysians,” said Ikea Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand retail director Mike King today.

Together with managing director Christian Rojkjaer, King launched the branch with a log-cutting ceremony, a traditional Swedish ritual to signify new beginnings.

At 42,000 square metres, the company’s new branch is 20 per cent bigger than its first maiden outlet in Damansara, said Ikea.

It also boasts 56 showrooms, and offers customers a whopping 8,500 types of its best-selling products.

Ikea is offering lucky customers today massive discounts and free goodies for those who snap selfies with its panda mascot.

Ikea designs and sells ready-to-assemble furniture, and was founded in Sweden in 1943 by then-17-year-old Ingvar Kamprad.

The company is known for its modern designs, and is associated with minimalism and eco-friendly simplicity.

Here are some photos from the launch and housewarming party in Ikea Cheras today:

Customers take a breather while shopping in the 42,000 square metre spanking new Ikea branch in Cheras. ― Picture by Saw Siow Feng

People shopping at the newly-opened IKEA outlet in Cheras, November 19, 2015. ― Picture by Saw Siow Feng

Excited customers start lining up in front of Ikea Cheras since 7am to catch its opening and Housewarming Party. ― Picture by Saw Siow Feng

The crowd waiting for the opening of the IKEA outlet in Cheras, November 19, 2015. ― Picture by Saw Siow Feng

Thousands of happy customers started thronging newly-launched Ikea Cheras after doors open at around 9.15am. ― Picture by Saw Siow Feng

Customers take a look around the new Ikea Cheras which is 20 per cent bigger than the first branch in Damansara. ― Picture by Saw Siow Feng