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Thai President Foods’ unit acquires majority stake in CHAGEE Thailand

Thai President Foods Public Company Limited (TFMAMA)—renowned for its Mama instant noodles and Farmhouse bakery products—has notified the Stock Exchange of Thailand that its subsidiary, Thai President Beverage Co., Ltd., has invested 142,417,500 baht to acquire a 51% ownership stake in CHAGEE (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a prominent tea retail brand operating in Thailand.

This strategic investment aims to deliver sustainable, long-term value for the company group, with funding sourced from existing working capital.

CHAGEE has made its official comeback in Thailand, unveiling three revitalized Tea Bar outlets in the heart of Bangkok. The grand reopening festivities spanned May 21–23, 2025, and were held across Park Silom, Exchange Tower, and Vanit Village. CHAGEE’s latest outlet is located at Central World Trade Center, 6th Floor and at Don Mueang International Airport.

OLDTOWN White Coffee Celebrates 25 Years Of Flavour And Malaysian Identity

A quarter century of iconic white coffee, shared moments and local flavours with new menu varieties, improved recipes and exclusive anniversary promotions nationwide

KUALA LUMPUR, 8 JULY 2025 — After 25 years of serving Malaysia’s beloved white coffee, OLDTOWN White Coffee is celebrating its silver jubilee with a nationwide campaign that brings fans both nostalgic flavours and exciting new experiences. From now till 31 October, the anniversary celebration unveils a bold new menu with elevated flavours and improved recipes across all outlets alongside a special-edition merchandise through a special retail promotion.

The milestone marks a remarkable journey from 1999, when OLDTOWN White Coffee first set out to bring Ipoh’s legendary white coffee beyond its traditional kopitiam boundaries, and into homes or on the go with its packaged coffee mixes and ready to drink (RTD) canned beverages. Today, OLDTOWN also operates over 100 F&B cafes outlets across Malaysia and the region, having served millions of cups of its signature 3-Bean Blend (Arabica, Robusta & Liberica) and becoming a cornerstone of Malaysian kopitiam and coffee culture.

“Reflecting on our 25th anniversary of championing Malaysian food and drink culture, we’re so proud that OLDTOWN White Coffee has maintained its authenticity while evolving with the times.   That’s why our signature  3-bean blend that launched the brand in 1999 still anchor every cup enjoyed today, whether a pre-mix savoured at home, or freshly made cup in a bustling urban outlet or quiet neighbourhood location where our regulars know each other by name,” said Fiona Tan, General Manager of JDE Malaysia, brand owner of OLDTOWN.

Tan added, “As a brand built upon heritage but alive to modern trends, OLDTOWN will continue to bring white coffee culture to a new generation of coffee lovers though innovations like our latest Coconut Flavoured White Coffee, which appeals to today’s consumers who value variety, heritage and authenticity.

“OLDTOWN White Coffee has become part of our national identity – not just as a coffee, but as a brand that Malaysians can proudly call their own,” Fiona elaborated, adding, “Apart from looking back at 25 years of success, this anniversary is about reaffirming our promise to continue creating spaces where Malaysians can connect over the tastes they love.”

New and improved menu at OLDTOWN F&B outlets nationwide

Starting this end of August, customers can look forward to an exciting new and improved menu at OLDTOWN outlets nationwide. Fan favourites such as the aromatic Nasi Lemak and rich Curry Mee have been enhanced with upgraded recipes and better quality for a more satisfying dining experience. Signature dishes, including the much-loved Kaya Butter Toast, are now crafted with improved quality ingredients for even better flavour and texture, ensuring each bite is more delicious than ever.

Complementing these classics are new additions including the flavour-packed Nasi Banjir series, Wok-Fried selections, authentic Hainanese dishes, and the Roti John & Paratha series. In line with these enhancements, OLDTOWN White Coffee has also refreshed its packaging to reinforce its commitment to quality and freshness while giving the brand a more contemporary, eye-catching look. With breakfast value set meals starting from just RM7.90, the menu reflects OLDTOWN’s dedication to delivering authentic Malaysian flavours at great value — inviting both loyal fans and new customers to rediscover what makes the brand special. 

Special edition merchandise to celebrate our 25th Anniversary

Retail shoppers purchasing any two packs of OLDTOWN White Coffee sachets at participating stores can redeem a collectable 25th Anniversary Tote Bag — a special-edition that pays tribute to the brand’s quarter-century journey through Malaysian homes and hearts. To redeem, simply present your receipt at the customer service counter after purchasing two (2) packs of OLDTOWN products.

For more information on OLDTOWN’s 25th Anniversary promotions and new menu offerings, you may visit their official website (www.oldtown.com.my/), Facebook page (www.facebook.com/OldTownWhiteCoffeeMalaysia)  or visit your nearest outlet.

Cafe Amazon Reaffirms Leadership with “Amazon Premium Selected Cup” Hero Product Targeting Premium Consumers with 100% Arabica Coffee

Ink Waruntorn Joins Cafe Amazon to Represent the Signature Smoothness and Premium Taste of its Selected Cup Series.

Monday 7 July 2025 – Cafe Amazon is actively advancing “Amazon Premium Selected Cup,” the brand’s hero product featuring 100% authentic Arabica coffee meticulously selected for its superior quality. The Selected Cup series features a distinctive aromatic fragrance and a uniquely smooth, refined taste, all at an accessible price point. This premium product line directly addresses the growing trends of premium consumers seeking out superior coffee experiences in their daily lives.

In an unprecedented move to push its Selected Cup series, Cafe Amazon is unveiling its very own presenter, featuring popular singer Ink – Waruntorn. This collaboration reflects the evolving preferences of coffee enthusiasts, who increasingly prioritize quality, the delicate aroma of authentic Arabica beans, and an unparalleled premium experience, aiming to expand the premium coffee to a wider consumer base outside of Cafe Amazon

Mr. Kraipit Premmani, Chief Lifestyle Business Officer at PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR) stated that “The Thai coffee market is undergoing a significant transformation, experiencing a remarkable growth. Consumers are more discerning and have higher expectations for their coffee experience than ever before. There is a clear shift away from on-the-go coffee, a market segment where Cafe Amazon played a pivotal role in, and toward an era where consumers seek to better engage with their coffee. They will prioritize complex flavors, bean origins, roasting processes, and diverse brewing methods This deeper understanding of coffee helps to refine and offer a superior experience to them. These changes clearly signal the immense potential for growth in the quality-focused premium coffee market.”

“Our ‘Amazon Premium Selected Cup’ is a direct response to these trends and is our hero product in the premium coffee beverage category. This year, we are implementing a comprehensive marketing strategy to further engage with all coffee lovers.. The Selected Cup series used 100% high-quality Arabica beans, expertly roasted and brewed to deliver a uniquely premium, smooth, , and multi-dimensional flavor. It promises a distinct and memorable coffee experience at every touchpoint – from the initial captivating aroma to the lingering aftertaste.

‘Amazon Premium Selected Cup’ truly embodies the unique identity of the Cafe Amazon brand. Beyond just premium coffee, it is a commitment to deliver quality and sophisticated taste at an affordable price. Those who look to incorporate premium moments into their busy, everyday lives will undoubtedly find them in a cup of Selected Cup coffee.”

Further amplifying this push, Cafe Amazon has unveiled Ink Waruntorn as the new presenter for its Selected Cup line. She perfectly embodies the multi-faceted essence of this premium coffee – from its delicate aroma and smoothness to its unique character. In this campaign, Ink showcases a casually smart, slightly edgy, and charming premium look, seamlessly manifesting the very spirit of Selected Cup.

Diverse Choices for the Premium Palate

“Amazon Premium Selected Cup” features 8 exquisite menu items made from 100% high-quality Arabica beans with a medium-to-dark roast. They were created to cater to every preference, from the classics like Espresso and Americano to the more exciting combinations like Peach Americano Sparkling and Yuzu Americano Sparkling, crafted to deliver refreshing perfection.

Experience the uniquely delicate and premium aroma of Cafe Amazon Selected Cup today, available now at participating Cafe Amazon branches nationwide.

Goodday KidSTART Returns — Malaysia’s Biggest Kidpreneur Programme is Back and Looking for the Next Generation of Young Changemakers!

Got a child with big ideas? A knack for problem-solving? Or just a bold imagination? This could be their moment.

KUALA LUMPUR, 3 JULY 2025 — Goodday Milk proudly unveils Goodday KidSTART 3.0,
Malaysia’s largest and most inspiring kidpreneur platform—built to spark ambition, build
confidence, and unlock the potential of young dreamers nationwide. Now in its third year, the programme continues its mission to equip the next generation with essential skills in
business, leadership, and financial literacy, empowering young minds to dream big and lead boldly.

Since its launch in 2022, Goodday KidSTART has captured the hearts of families across the country, earning a Malaysia Book of Records title for the Largest Kidpreneur Programme and engaging over 5,000 children through hands-on, values-driven learning. At its core, the programme nurtures creativity, resilience, and purpose, giving young Malaysians the confidence to think like entrepreneurs and the courage to dream beyond the classroom.

This year, Goodday KidSTART 3.0 breaks new ground with its first-ever televised reality show on Astro Ria and Astro Ceria, offering audiences a front-row seat to the entrepreneurial journeys of participating children. The series will document their development from idea to pitch, giving Malaysians a closer look at the talent, grit, and growth these young changemakers experience throughout the programme. The partnership with Astro—Malaysia’s leading content and entertainment platform—enables the programme to engage both families and school-aged viewers, reinforcing the message that innovation and financial literacy can begin at a young age. With Astro as a broadcast partner, the programme is set to inspire more young minds than ever before.

EXPANDED PROGRAMME, ENHANCED REACH

Goodday KidSTART 3.0 kicks off its nationwide recruitment this July, promising to be the most inclusive and ambitious edition yet, aiming to engage more than 6,000 students across Malaysia through an expanded network of schools. While the programme will be brought to more classrooms than ever before, a digital learning experience via webinar is also available, ensuring children from all backgrounds can participate, explore entrepreneurship, and learn key concepts such as business modelling, design thinking, and creative problem-solving.

Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing at Etika Sdn Bhd, shared, “We’ve seen incredible talent over the past two years. This programme is about more than just ideas — it’s about building confidence, resilience, and giving kids the tools to lead. We’ve seen children who were once shy transform into young visionaries. With Goodday Milk at the heart of it, we’re not just nourishing young bodies, but also young minds, encouraging big dreams and bold thinking. This year, we’re taking it to a whole new level with TV exposure and expert mentorship — because we believe every child deserves a chance to be seen, heard, and inspired.”

Amy further added: “This year, we’re expanding our reach to more schools and empowering even more students to participate. It’s one thing to develop a business plan in the classroom, but it’s another to carry that idea through a real pitching experience. What’s most exciting is that, for the first time, their journeys will be documented and shared through a national television series, giving audiences a chance to witness the hard work, growth and creativity that happens behind the scenes.”

Chen Chow Yeoh, Founder of 1% Advisory & Coaching, and former judge for Goodday
KidSTART 2.0, shared: “Judging last year’s Goodday KidSTART finale truly opened my eyes to how capable and creative these children are. Many of their pitches were on par with, if not better than, those presented by university students. What impressed me most was their ability to speak passionately about issues they genuinely care about—from accessibility and mental health to sustainability and innovation. Two of the top three winners were just nine years old, yet they pitched like professionals. If your child has a big imagination or loves solving problems, this is the programme to be in. KidSTART doesn’t just teach entrepreneurship—it nurtures leadership, purpose, and courage from a young age.”

CALL FOR ENTRIES

Malaysia’s most impactful kidpreneur programme is now open for submissions, welcoming
children across the country to step forward with their boldest ideas. Whether it’s a solution to a real-world problem or a creative concept ready to shine, Goodday KidSTART 3.0 offers a national stage for young minds to be seen, heard, and guided by the best.

Submissions for Goodday KidSTART 3.0 are now open from 1 July to 30 September 2025. To enter, children are invited to submit a short video introducing themselves, the inspiration behind their business idea, and their elevator pitch via Goodday’s website at
www.gooddaykidstart.com

Following a 10-week submission and selection process, 100 finalists will be chosen to refine their entries for resubmission, after which the top 20 will be selected to advance to the next stage. These young finalists will receive expert mentorship and national exposure, gaining the confidence and skills to pitch their ideas to a panel of industry leaders and seasoned entrepreneurs. Winners will be awarded prizes worth up to RM60,000 to help bring their business dreams to life.

With the support of Etika Sdn Bhd, Goodday Milk, and dedicated collaborators, Goodday
KidSTART 3.0 is set to become a defining platform for youth empowerment and
entrepreneurial education in Malaysia, where the ideas of tomorrow start with the children of today.

If your child has a big idea, this is their moment. Submit today—and let their journey begin

Barista Brews at Prices You Won’t Believe Exist!

Café Mesra @ ExxonMobil KLCC

Think handcrafted coffee always comes with a hefty price tag? Think again. Across Malaysia, cafés serve rich, barista-crafted beverages for under RM10–in places you’d never expect. From MRT stops to museum lobbies and even rest stops, these spots prove that affordability and quality can go hand in hand.

Whether you’re commuting, travelling, or exploring the city, there’s now a way to enjoy a flavourful caffeine fix without overspending. Cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and more–many under RM10, all without compromising on taste.

Here’s where to find them:

Café Mesra @ ExxonMobil KLCC (Trailer) – The Jogger’s Java Fix

Situated right outside KLCC Park, this café-on-wheels is a go-to for joggers and tourists alike. Cooling down from your morning run or scrolling through the park? A smooth Cappuccino (RM8) or Iced Latte (RM10) pairs perfectly with a Classic Doughnut (RM3.90) or Jumbo Croissant (RM6.00).

✔️ Handcrafted caffeine and fresh bakes right by the park.

Café Mesra @ MRT Ampang Park – Elevated Sips, Everyday Treats

Café Mesra @ MRT Ampang Park

Perched above the city’s hustle, this MRT stop isn’t just a transit point–it’s your new go-to for great coffee and pastries on the fly. Grab a Flat White (RM8) or Iced Americano (RM8), paired with a Red Bean Doughnut (RM4.10) or Garlic Chive Bagel (RM8.70) – fast, satisfying, and affordable.

✔️Your transit stop, upgraded with espresso and pastries.

Café Mesra @ The Horizon, Bangsar South – Office Break, Upgraded

Café Mesra @ The Horizon, Bangsar South

Nestled among corporate towers and glassy facades, this Café Mesra is a sanctuary for 9-to-5ers. Order a Vanilla Latte (RM9) or Hot Americano (RM6), and snack on a Coffee Mexico Bun (RM4.50) or Ikan Bilis Doughnut (RM4.10) between meetings. Great for a mid-morning escape or that 3pm pick-me-up.

✔️ Great coffee for the work grind, minus the splurge.

Café Mesra @ Petrosains, Level 4, KLCC – Curious Minds, Caffeinated Moments

Café Mesra @ Petrosains, Level 4, KLCC

Field trip? Family day out? Either way, this outlet is brewing up more than just curiosity. Located right inside Petrosains, it’s the ideal place to fuel up before (or after) a day of exploring. Sip on a Hot Chocolate (RM8) or Matcha Latte (RM9) with a Smoked Chicken and Cheese Sandwich Meltz (RM10.10) during your next educational outing.

✔️ A clever combo of science, snacks, and seriously good coffee.

Café Mesra @ R&R Ayer Keroh Northbound – Highway Heaven in a Cup

Café Mesra @ R&R Ayer Keroh Northbound

Say goodbye to bland highway brews–as this rest stop delivers. Whether you’re heading back from Melaka or starting a road trip, this branch at Ayer Keroh Northbound is a true hero. Think Americano (RM6), Latte (RM8), and Double Chocolate Muffin (RM6.90) – or go with a Chicken Sausage Doughnut (RM4.30) before hitting the road again.

✔️ Your next highway stop just became a café experience.

Same Name, Same Mission

Surprise! All these locations are Café Mesra outlets.

Every location on this list is part of Café Mesra’s growing network, all driven by the same mission. And while everything else keeps getting pricier, Café Mesra is doing the opposite – keeping prices low for good. As of 1 June, the brand has introduced a price reduction across its handcrafted beverage menu, making favourites like lattes, americanos, and iced teas even more accessible–with drinks now starting from RM4, and most under RM10.

From city parks to commuter hubs and  highway rest stops, Café Mesra proves that barista-quality coffee doesn’t have to cost a fortune—or require a detour. Just good coffee, served fresh, wherever you are.

 

Cafe Show Hanoi – November 13 ~ 15, 2025

Cafe Show Hanoi is a crucial industry trade fair for the Northern Vietnam market dedicated to the food and beverage sector. The expo will be scheduled for the first time at the Vietnam Exposition Centre (VNEC) between 13 and 15 November 2025.

Cafe Show Hanoi 2025 expects to welcome over 120,000 domestic and international visitors at one of the largest exhibition centres, VNEC, ensuring an engaging experience during the three-day expo. Cafe Show Hanoi 2025 will focus on food and beverage trends, coffee, tea and the entire hospitality industry. Regarded as a renowned international F&B exhibition in Hanoi, Vietnam, the Cafe Show will draw significant local, regional and international attention. Numerous exhibiting companies will showcase their top-quality products and services, ensuring opportunities for business connections and collaborations. Among the professionals will be well-established international brands, leading distributors, and industry experts, presenting their innovative solutions across the entire F&B sector.

Some highlights of the Cafe Show Hanoi 2025’s fringe programme will be competitions, such as the Vietnam National Coffee Championship 2025, the Vietnam National Latte Art Championship 2025, and the Vietnam National Brewers Cup 2025.

Cafe Show Vietnam – April 16 ~ 18, 2026

The 11th edition of the Vietnam Int’l Cafe Show will be held from 16 to 18 April 2026 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The trade fair will run in parallel with the following prominent F&B industry events: Cherry’s Choice, Coffee Alley, Coffee Talk, Coffee Training Station, Sweet Glass, and Biz Matching – Mocha Port. At the same time, it will be co-located with the Tea Show Vietnam and the Vietnam Bar & Spirit Show.

Vietnam International Cafe Show Exhibition 2026 is expected to attract over 400 leading and emerging cafe brands and companies ready to showcase their products and solutions to more than 35,000 curious visitors from over 40 countries worldwide. The rich product overview will include Coffee, Tea & Pastries, Desserts, Raw Materials, Kitchen Equipment, Packaging, Retail Systems, Furniture, Halal, Mobile Payment Solutions, Ingredients, Cleaning Services, Ice Cream, Chocolate, Food Service, Franchising & Entrepreneurship, Machinery & Equipment.

 

The Joy of Moving Together – A Reminder That Movement Feels Better When It’s Shared

ASICS ‘Little Reminders’ – a group of seven to nine-year-olds – remind adults to exercise for how it makes them feel – not how it makes them look.  

  • ASICS has formed the region’s youngest exercise influencer team, the ASICS ‘Little Reminders’, to remind adults about how exercise makes them feel, not how it makes them look.  
  • The team has created the first exercise guide made by children for adults to remind adults to move for enjoyment and not just performance. 

30 June 2025, Kuala Lumpur: In conjunction with Global Running Month, ASICS introduces the region’s youngest exercise influencer team in South-East Asia, the ASICS ‘Little Reminders’, an adaptation from ASICS Europe campaign, whose mission is to remind adults about how exercise makes them feel rather than how it makes them look. 

 As children, exercise is instinctive. Young children run, jump, and climb because it feels good. But for adults, the motivation to exercise is all too often focused on aesthetic gain, reinforced by a very serious and regimented exercise routine. 

In order to remind adults to move for the positive mental benefits of exercise, ASICS has formed the ‘Little Reminders’, a group of seven and nine-year-olds from across South-East Asia who exercise purely because it makes them feel good. 

The ASICS ‘Little Reminders’ have developed the first-ever exercise guide made by children for adults to remind older generations to move for enjoyment and not just performance. The ambassadors will also be taking over the channels of some of the biggest exercise influencers with their workout to help inspire more people to move for the mental uplift. 

Yogesh Gandhi, Managing Director of ASICS Asia, said: “Kids move simply because it feels good — no pressure, no goals, just joy. But as we grow up, exercise often shifts from something that uplifts us to something driven by statistics, appearances, or expectations. What should be a mood booster can often end up adding stress. 

At ASICS, we believe it’s time to bring the joy back. Our name stands for Anima Sana in Corpore Sano — a sound mind in a sound body — and that’s what movement should support. With the Little Reminder campaign, we’re letting kids do what they do best: remind us that moving for the joy of it is more than enough.” 

ASICS Malaysia’s Little Reminders in Celebration of Global Running Month 

ASICS Malaysia Little Influencers accompanied by their parents are at the 3km Fun Run starting line

ASICS Malaysia invited families and their kids to experience movement in its purest at Perdana Botanical Garden (The Lake Garden), Kuala Lumpur. Held on Sunday, 29 June, 2025, the event welcomed parents, kids, and fitness enthusiasts for a refreshing take on staying active—one rooted in fun, rather than pressure. Participants were introduced to the brand’s first-ever exercise guide created by children, offering a fresh perspective on movement that prioritises feeling good over aesthetics.  

“At ASICS Malaysia, we believe that movement should be driven by joy, not pressure, and the Little Reminders campaign is a beautiful testament to that. Watching families and children rediscover the simple pleasure of exercise has been truly inspiring, reminding us that fitness is about feeling good, not just looking good.” shared Boon Tib Soom Nik, Country Manager of ASICS Malaysia.  

The energy soared as kids and their parents took part in the Little Reminders Workout, letting go of rigid routines to rediscover the playful side of exercise. The experience culminated in a 3km Fun Run, where families, embraced the moment, running not for speed, but for the sheer joy of it. 

“The Little Reminders Workout completely changed how my child and I approach exercise. Instead of focusing on technique or goals, it encouraged us to move with ease and excitement, just like kids naturally do. My child had a blast with the fun activities, and I realised that when I let go of expectations, I enjoyed working out more too. This experience truly reflected what it means to have a Sound Mind and a Sound Body.” shared by Adilla Noraidillina Adilla J.Sam, a former national cyclist and mother to a three-year-old.  

Elevate your own fitness journey and join the OneASICS membership program for exclusive benefits and insights at https://www.asics.com/my/en-my/mk/oneasicsmy 

To read and follow the Little Reminder’s workout guide visit https://www.asics.com/sg/en-sg/mk/littlereminderssea  

 

Brew in Style: Cosentino Partners with Lamarsa to Inspire the Ultimate Brew Corner

La Marzocco GS3 MP Espresso Machine

Kuala Lumpur, 2 July 2025 – Cosentino, a global leader in innovative surfaces for architecture and interior design, has partnered with Lamarsa, purveyors of fine coffee equipment, to host a design and coffee session at the Cosentino Showroom. This collaboration aims to inspire coffee enthusiasts, professional baristas, and café owners to create their ultimate brew corners, whether for personal enjoyment or commercial spaces. Among the guests were key figures in the local coffee scene, including Claire Tan, founder of Grumpy Bagels, and Yuth Gan Ooi, co-founder of Oui Bakehouse and Café.

Claire Tan at Cosentino x Lamarsa Coffee Masterclass

“At Cosentino, we are committed to offer surfaces that combine durability with exceptional aesthetics,” shares Chong Hwa Foo, General Manager of Cosentino Malaysia. “Partnering with Lamarsa, a brand equally dedicated to innovative design and quality coffee equipment, allows us to demonstrate how thoughtful design can elevate the coffee experience, whether at home or in a commercial setting.”

From L to R: Chong Hwa Foo (General Manager, Cosentino Malaysia), Shaun Liew (Co-Founder, Curate Coffee Roasters & ONO Specialty Coffee & Matcha), Leonard Mak (Founder, LM Studio), Patricia Lyon (Regional Marketing Lead, Cosentino), Benjamin Poh (Director, Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company), Claudia Tan (Director, Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company), Vanessa Teo (Marketing Specialist, La Marzocco SEA), Steven Soo (Business Development Manager, Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company), Fu Jun Lim (Sales Lead, Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company), and Shirley Tan (Assistant Marketing Manager, Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company).

“Designing a brew space isn’t complete without great coffee,” says Claudia Tan, Director of Lamarsa Malaysia. “At Lamarsa, we aim to inspire both coffee lovers and professionals to elevate their brew corners by combining the latest brewing innovations with considered design. We are delighted to partner with Cosentino, whose commitment to quality and innovation perfectly aligns with ours.”

(L to R) Shaun Liew, Patricia Lyon, Leonard Mak, Chong Hwa Foo

The Art of Crafting A Brew Corner with Cosentino

Designing the ultimate brew corner sets the tone for the entire coffee experience, whether in a commercial or residential environment. While the goals for brew corners in these settings may differ, many key design principles remain consistent. Interior designer Leonard Mak, founder of LM Studio, shares his expert insights on creating the perfect brew corner.

According to Leonard, the most important principle when designing a brew corner is that “good design should enhance the way you work.” It is about creating a space that is intuitive, functional, and easy to use, even at home without professional barista skills. If the space doesn’t help you brew better or move more efficiently, it simply isn’t fulfilling its purpose.

Leonard Mak, Founder of LM Studio sharing the art of crafting a perfect brew corner with Cosentino.

Leonard also highlights common challenges faced by both baristas and home coffee enthusiasts, particularly when selecting the right countertop. Finding a surface that is stain-resistant and able to withstand coffee spills is crucial. He recommends Dekton by Cosentino surfaces, noting his own tests with “stubborn stains commonly found in kitchens such as turmeric, wine and ketchup.” These surfaces effectively repel stains, making it easy to wipe away spilled coffee without leaving marks.

Leonard Mak showcases the durability and stain resistance of the Dekton by Cosentino surface, ideal for a high-performance brew countertop.

Beyond the countertop, Leonard emphasizes the importance of ergonomics. “The height of the countertop is a key consideration,” he says, “as long hours spent working at an ill-suited height can lead to discomfort and issues like back pain, especially for professional baristas.”

Finally, Leonard stresses the role of lighting in the brew corner. “Lighting plays a bigger role than most people realize,” he explains. “Poor lighting can cause reflections or shadows that make it difficult to see stains or work comfortably. Just as ergonomics matter, something as simple as the wrong countertop height can significantly impact the overall experience and functionality.”

Leonard’s insights were echoed by Shaun Liew, co-founder of ONO Specialty Coffee & Matcha and Curated Coffee Roasters, who is also a world-champion barista.

Shaun Liew posing at the Cosentino sample room with the iconic La Marzocco GS3 MP Espresso Machine

“Dekton is one of the surfaces I would personally choose and highly recommend,” said Shaun. “As a barista and café owner, I look for materials that can withstand the demands of daily operations. From supporting heavy coffee machines to handling heat, stains and scratches, the surface needs to perform. With Dekton, I can prepare, cut and pour directly on the counter without worry; it truly meets the needs of a working coffee station.”

Shaun also expressed his appreciation for Cosentino surfaces, describing them as the “perfect combination of beauty, durability and functionality”. As a café owner, he emphasised the importance of choosing surfaces that can endure daily use while complementing the overall style and ambience of the space.

Mastering the Art of Coffee-Making

As coffee is the centrepiece of the brew corner experience, selecting the right equipment is essential to delivering the perfect cup. To highlight this, barista Shaun Liew emphasised the importance of crafting a well-balanced coffee by focusing on key elements such as body, texture and finish. He also shared tips on identifying an even harmonious flavour profile, often characterised by sweet and fruity notes.

Shaun Liew with the La Marzocco Linea Micra Espresso Machine and La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine.

Shaun highlighted the significance of quality equipment, recommending the La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine for commercial use and the La Marzocco Linea Micra Espresso Machine for home brewing which he demonstrated with. He also noted that La Marzocco, carried by Lamarsa, aligns with the same sustainability values upheld by Cosentino.

To showcase what goes into making an exceptional cup, Shaun prepared coffee for guests using the La Marzocco Espresso Machines along with La Marzocco Pico Coffee Grinder and the Mahlkonig X64SD Coffee Grinder, all set atop the Dekton by Cosentino surface.

Guests had the option to choose from a menu featuring a variety of coffee, including the signature coffee mocktail “Summer Paradise.” This refreshing concoction combines bold espresso with zesty lime juice, tropical mango and the exotic sweetness of passion fruit syrup, topped with sparkling soda.

La Marzocco Linea Micra Espresso Machine in yellow

The inspiration to design your own brew corner marks just the beginning of an exciting design journey. Discover how Cosentino surfaces and Lamarsa coffee equipment can creatively enhance your brew space by visiting https://www.cosentino.com/en-my/ or http://www.lamarsacoffee.com/.

About Cosentino Group

Cosentino Group is a global family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for architecture and design. As a leading company, Cosentino imagines and anticipates together with its customers and partners to design solutions that offer value and inspiration to people’s lives. This goal is made possible by pioneering brands that are leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone®, Dekton® and Sensa by Cosentino®.

The group bases its development on international expansion, an innovative research and development program, respect for the environment and sustainability, and its ongoing corporate commitment to society and the local communities where it operates, education, equality and health & safety.

Cosentino Group currently distributes its products and brands in more than 110 countries, from its headquarters in Almeria (Spain), and it’s present with its own assets in 30 of them. The group has 8 factories (7 in Almería, Spain and 1 in Brazil), 1 intelligent logistic platform in Spain, and 140 commercial and business units throughout the world. More than 90% of Cosentino Group’s financial turnover comes from international markets www.cosentino.com

About Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company

Founded in 2017, Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company is a leading purveyor of fine coffee equipment based in Malaysia. As the official Malaysian distributor for prestigious brands such as Rocket Espresso, La Marzocco, Slayer, Profitec, ECM, Mahlkönig, Eureka, Fiorenzato, Acaia, Fellow Products, Kinu Grinders and more, Lamarsa brings world-class coffee technology to local enthusiasts and professionals alike. Driven by a team of passionate coffee lovers, Lamarsa is dedicated to sharing specialist knowledge and helping customers create their perfect coffee experience, whether at home, in the café, the office, or on the move. Our mission is to guide you in discovering the ideal coffee setup tailored to your lifestyle and budget. Committed to quality and longevity, Lamarsa is your trusted partner in the pursuit of exceptional coffee equipment that stands the test of time.

PolicyStreet Offers RM100 Touch ’n Go eWallet Credit for Every Car Insurance Renewal

From hatchbacks to Hiluxes, PolicyStreet has over RM100,000 up for grabs with every car insurance renewal made on its platform, with no minimum purchase necessary

KUALA LUMPUR, 7 JULY 2025 — If you’re renewing your car insurance anywhere else, you might be leaving money on the table. This July, PolicyStreet is giving out over RM100,000 as part of its nationwide Cash Kembali campaign, rewarding every customer who renews their car insurance through its platform with RM100 in Touch ’n Go (TnG) eWallet reloads.

Running from 7 July 2025 until further notice, Cash Kembali is open to all Malaysians, regardless of car make or model, with no minimum purchase required. The RM100 cashback will be sent via email as a TnG reload PIN within 30 days of purchase, just for doing something you were already going to do.

Yen Ming Lee, Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer

“It’s easy to forget that car insurance is one of the biggest yearly expenses for most Malaysians. We wanted to flip that expectation and turn a yearly expense into an instant reward. You get protected and get paid,” said Yen Ming Lee, Co-founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of PolicyStreet.

The RM100 cashback applies per vehicle and is not limited to the individual. For Malaysians with multiple vehicles, you’ll receive RM100 for each eligible renewal through PolicyStreet. If you’re a parent with two cars in your name, renewing the car insurance for both through PolicyStreet means you could receive a total of RM200 in cashback.

To claim your share, simply visit car.policystreet.com and request a quote. In just a few clicks, you’ll receive personalised quotes from PolicyStreet’s top recommended insurers, selected for their value and coverage. Add-ons like road tax renewal, windshield protection, and more can be included before you check out online; no paperwork, no phone calls, no queues.

Want To Save Even More?

Channel your inner extreme couponer and stack extra promo codes to stretch your Ringgit further. Use PSBelanja10 to get RM10 off your first car insurance renewal, or PAYDAY35 to snag RM35 off between the 25th and 30th of every month;  all on top of the RM100 cashback.

Prefer not to pay everything upfront? Spread your premium over up to 12 months with Easy Payment Plans from nine participating banks, including Maybank, Public Bank, and CIMB Bank. Debit card holders can also split payments via Buy Now Pay Later options like Atome, SPayLater, or PayLater by Grab, with platform discounts available at checkout.

The Cash Kembali campaign is just the beginning. More ways to save are set to roll out soon, so keep an eye out for even more rewards, better value, and simplified insurance with PolicyStreet. Full campaign details and terms & conditions are available at https://policystreet.com.my/tnc

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