Starbucks Malaysia concluded its year-long campaign, the ‘Starbucks Art For Good: The Bearista Art Project’, with a vibrant celebration of creativity and inclusivity. Started in December 2023 for Starbucks Malaysia’s 25th anniversary, this initiative allowed local artists to display their talent while contributing positively to the community.
Held at Pavilion Bukit Jalil from 22 to 24 February 2025, the event celebrated over 60 Malaysian artists, including those who are Deaf, autistic, or emerging art students. They created 25 special ‘Life-Sized Bearista’ figures, turning the popular Starbucks bear into unique pieces of art. Many of these artists have faced personal challenges and use art to express themselves and tell their stories, showing that creativity has no limits.
As the project grew, it also included ‘Mini-Bearista’ collectibles inspired by the larger figures, available for sale in all Starbucks stores across the country. This effort allowed more people to participate in the campaign and support local artists. In partnership with the local NGO MERCY Malaysia, customers could also help make a difference through their purchases.
The event’s highlight was the grand finale on 22 February, where Starbucks Malaysia announced a surprise donation of RM500,000 to enhance this initiative. RM250,000 will go to the participating artists as a reward for their talent, and the other RM250,000 will be given to MERCY Malaysia’s Palestine Relief Fund, supporting important projects like health, water sanitation, and livelihood programs for Palestinian communities in need.
“We are deeply inspired by the incredible artists who poured their hearts into this project, and we are honored to support them in their creative journey. This initiative embodies our commitment to fostering inclusivity in the arts while making a tangible impact in Malaysia and Palestine,” said Dato’ Sydney Quays, Group CEO of Berjaya Food Berhad and Managing Director of Starbucks Malaysia.
Adding to the celebration, Starbucks Malaysia surprised the artists with the exciting news that their hard work and creativity had earned a special recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records. The project received the title of “Most ‘Bearista’ Art in a Community Project,” highlighting Starbucks Malaysia’s commitment to working with the community.
The grand finale ceremony was a lively display of art and inclusion, featuring an exhibition of the artists’ creations, a presentation of a mock cheque, and a special performance by DeafBeat Malaysia, a group of Deaf percussionists showing that rhythm goes beyond sound. Guests also enjoyed a Deaf coffee-tasting session led by Lin, a Deaf barista at the world’s first Starbucks Signing Store. To support Starbucks’ mission of promoting diversity, the ceremony included a sign language interpreter. Additionally, the event showcased all 25 life-sized Bearista figures, fun games, exclusive merchandise, and exciting giveaways.
Believing in the power of connections over coffee, the event introduced its ‘Get Together’ campaign to encourage meaningful conversations that inspire positive action—one conversation and two cups at a time. Launching in the Asia Pacific, the campaign focuses on three main pillars: people, community, and environment, featuring activities that promote positive change in various ways.