KUALA LUMPUR (2 January 2024) – In the spirit of unity and a quarter-century of brewing connections and shared moments, Starbucks Malaysia commemorates its 25th anniversary, marking a milestone that began with the inauguration of Starbucks KL Plaza on 17 December 1998. What humbly started as an introduction of exceptional coffee and an international coffee house experience to Malaysia, has blossomed into a heartwarming journey of connection, community, and unwavering dedication to Malaysians.
Deeply rooted in their values, the brand is committed to giving back to the very community that has played an invaluable role in its remarkable growth. As they honor 25 years of shared moments together, Starbucks is proud to be an integral part of Malaysia, and aspires to continue fostering meaningful connections with everyone in the local community for many years to come. Embodying this commitment, the ethos of Starbucks Malaysia’s 25
th anniversary is encapsulated in the spirit of “Brewing Memories, Engaging Communities,” where every sip and conversation contributes to the shared experiences within the local community. Each day, Starbucks remains steadfast in fulfilling its mission, “With every cup, with every conversation, with every community – we nurture the limitless possibilities of human connection” – reflecting the true essence of their journey in Malaysia and the world.
Starbucks Malaysia has been more than just a coffee house, it’s been a cornerstone of communities, transforming its stores into the beloved “third place” for Malaysians. From the heart of Kuala Lumpur to all Malaysian states and federal territories, over 400 Starbucks stores have become a location to foster connections and create memories. Amidst the comforting aroma of extraordinarily crafted coffee, Starbucks’ design philosophy is especially evident in its Starbucks ReserveTM stores, which features an enticingly warm interior and eye-catching art pieces that creates a welcoming atmosphere for all. Emerging as the 400th store in Malaysia, the recently-opened Starbucks ReserveTM Island Glades Drive-Thru is a testament to the brand’s commitment to creating inviting spaces and coffee innovations.
Beyond the exceptional Starbucks Experience, the true essence of Starbucks Malaysia’s growth lies in its partners (employees)- over 5000 all-Malaysian individuals who wear the iconic green apron with passion and pride. Their utmost dedication, coupled with Starbucks’ commitment to diversity and inclusivity, has been instrumental in brewing the company’s success. Starbucks prioritizes the professional growth and personal development of its partners through meticulously crafted training programs. This dedication to fostering a supportive work environment has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the multiple ‘Employer of Choice’ awards that Starbucks Malaysia has proudly garnered through-out its 25-year journey.
“I am filled with joy over witnessing the growth of Starbucks in Malaysia,” shares Dato’ Sydney Quays, Group CEO of Berjaya Food and Managing Director of Berjaya Starbucks. “I have to thank our dedicated partners for their unwavering enthusiasm and passion for consistently serving our iconic Starbucks Experience. I am also grateful to our local business partners and friends of the media for their contribution to our growth in Malaysia. And most of all, I am eternally thankful to Malaysians for allowing us to create meaningful connections with them, from our very beginnings and for many years to come.”
Good Things Are Happening- People. Planet. Coffee
In its remarkable 25-year journey, Starbucks Malaysia has brewed compassion and inclusivity that goes beyond the confines of a coffeehouse. 2016 marked a profound milestone as Starbucks Malaysia embarked on a mission to nurture a more inclusive and compassionate community. The heartbeat of this mission resonates in the world’s first Starbucks Signing Store, nestled in the heart of Bangsar Village II, a haven that not only serves coffee but fulfills dreams, provides a career path , and creates a safe space for
the Deaf community. In collaboration with local Deaf associations, this journey continued with the unveiling of Signing Stores in Burmah Road, Penang, and Vivacity Megamall, Kuching.
Over the years, this commitment has blossomed into a source of pride as Starbucks Malaysia successfully employed and empowered Deaf partners. Once aspiring individuals, some have now become qualified ‘Coffee Masters’ and shift supervisors, contributing their skills and their unique perspectives to the Starbucks family. Beyond employment, the brand also provides a vibrant platform for the Deaf community to showcase their talents. Some stores are adorned with the captivating artwork of Deaf artists like Lim Anuar and Madang Ding Anyi. The walls don’t just echo the sound of brewing coffee but reverberate with the soulful expressions of a community empowered and celebrated. This initiative is a testament to Starbucks Malaysia’s commitment to go beyond being a coffee destination, becoming a canvas where dreams are painted, talents are nurtured, and a community is embraced with open arms.
In 2019, Starbucks Malaysia launched a meaningful initiative called the Starbucks Upcycled Flavorlock™ Pouch program, a testament to the collaborative efforts of Starbucks and its customers who have generously donated used Flavorlock Whole Bean coffee bags. These bags, once used to package coffee, are meticulously upcycled by the young girls and women of YWCA KL. From cleaning to matching the fabrics that line the pouches, each one is unique, reflecting the individuality and care put into their creation. For every pouch purchased, RM1 is dedicated to supporting the YWCA KL’s Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC), which empowers young girls and women from the B40 communities through tailored curriculums. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the program also contributes to Starbucks’ commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and environmental impact. These pouches are not just a fashion statement, it’s a reminder of how small acts of kindness, like giving a used coffee bag, can create a ripple effect of positive change.
More than just coffee, Starbucks Malaysia takes a bold step in corporate social responsibility by initiating a long-term partnership with NGOs such as What a Waste (WaW), to eradicate food insecurity among low-income families by granting a substantial sum of USD50,000. “The foundation of a resilient society lies in ensuring universal access to nutritious food,” affirms Dato’ Sydney Quays. “Starbucks is fully committed to this cause, recognizing the daily struggles faced by many in breaking free from the shackles
of poverty and malnourishment. Through these grants and our long-term partnerships, we aim to ensure that every marginalized community receives the sustenance they deserve and that no one is left behind.”
Delivering Trust in Every Cup We Serve
Committed to delivering Halal deliciousness, Starbucks Malaysia proudly emphasizes its dedication to Halal compliance, a commitment that has been a part of its identity since 2006 when it received the esteemed JAKIM Halal certification. In 2017, Starbucks Malaysia became one the few companies that were listed in JAKIM’s Inisiatif Rahmah Halal Malaysia (Whitelist), a highly-valued initiative introduced to encourage industry engagement in Malaysian Halal certification.
For Starbucks Malaysia, being certified by JAKIM is more than a regulatory adherence, it’s a symbol of the brand’s commitment to the diverse Malaysian consumers. Since day one, the company pledges to consistently meet and exceed the expectations set by JAKIM, ensuring that every product and service resonates with the essence of Halal principles. This genuine approach has forged a profound sense of trust and appreciation among customers, establishing Starbucks Malaysia as not just a coffee provider but a brand deeply connected to the cultural fabric of the nation.
Brewing Memories and Engaging Communities
Honoring 25 years of shared moments, the brand is thrilled to unveil its exclusive Starbucks Malaysia 25th Anniversary Collection! In this exciting journey, the brand introduces a series of releases, each adding its own charm to the commemoration. In the initial phase, Starbucks launched the highly anticipated food & beverages, the stylish 2024 planners, drinkwares, and Starbucks card.
The spotlight of the range falls on the life-sized plushie named ‘Bearista’. Dressed in the iconic Starbucks Malaysia partner uniform, complete with the signature green apron, the Bearista is ready to spread snuggly hugs to its fans. Rewinding to 1998, Starbucks unveiled the first-ever Malaysia exclusive tumbler, a beautiful fusion of local culture and Starbucks’ global flair. Fast forward to today, Starbucks Malaysia presents the ‘Timeless Brew’ tumbler. Crafted from stainless steel, the design on the tumbler brews together tradition and progress, symbolizing Malaysia’s rich heritage. It’s more than just a tumbler, it’s a
vessel of time merging past and present, celebrating the vibrance of our nation’s culture.
Embark on this nostalgic journey by heading to your nearest Starbucks store today and immerse yourself in the magic of the Starbucks Malaysia 25 th Anniversary Collection. Stay tuned for more delightful releases throughout the year, as Starbucks continues to share joy, one cup, one neighborhood, and one community at a time.
Stay up to date for more exciting news of Starbucks Malaysia’s 25th Anniversary by heading over to the official Starbucks Malaysia website at www.starbucks.com.my or follow the official Starbucks Malaysia Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/mystarbucks/
