Socially responsible endeavour

MENGKUANG (screwpine) leaves are often used in Malaysian handicraft. It is also set to be the latest luxury accessory for Starbucks lovers throughout the country.
Berjaya Starbucks Coffee Company Sdn Bhd has struck up a partnership with Craft CT 01 Enterprise from Felda Chini Timur 01 in Pahang to produce a line of products that includes hot cup sleeves, coasters and bags, made from delicately weaved (also called pandanus weaving), processed mengkuang leaves.
The initiative is part of the Starbucks Connecting Communities in Malaysia campaign and was recently launched to celebrate Starbucks’ 15th anniversary in Malaysia. The “Mengkuang Series” is the second project under this initiative.
“It has always been the aim of Starbucks to give back to the communities. Since we do not produce our own coffee beans, this is the perfect opportunity to promote Malaysian handicraft instead,” explained Starbucks Malaysia and Brunei managing director Sydney Quays.
“The aim of our partnership with Craft CT 01 Enterprise is to provide the people with a sustainable and stable income. We work hard to ensure that their hardwork is rewarded with the revenue they receive from the sale of the Mengkuang Series products,” Quays added.
Craft CT01 Enterprise managing director Ali Yusof Abd Rahman was delighted to partner with Starbucks Malaysia. “Craft CT 01 Enterprise was established in 2006 as a source of income for the villagers. I am proud that it has stood strong until now. I would also like to thank Starbucks Malaysia for this opportunity, and I hope that we can bring this product to the global market,” he shared.
The Starbucks mengkuang hot cup sleeves are suitable for use with Starbucks Tall, Grande and Venti-sized cups or tumblers. Priced at RM15.90 for a set of two, stock is available at selected outlets while it lasts. The coaster and bag, which come with a special slot for Starbucks’ cups and tumblers, will be available in the next few months. Visit the Starbucks website for more information.