“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 FlavorlockTM 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.”