Latest news with #JuanAranols
Daily Express
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Sabah's cocoa in KitKat
Published on: Wednesday, June 04, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 04, 2025 Text Size: Kota Kinabalu: Nestlé Malaysia is transforming Sabah's rich cocoa farming heritage into world-class confectionery products, with the company's latest innovation, KitKat® Dark Borneo, leading the charge in revitalising the State's cocoa industry. The single-origin chocolate, crafted exclusively from cocoa beans grown in Sabah and Sarawak, represents a significant milestone in bringing North Borneo's agricultural dedication to global markets. 'We are excited to transform the dedication of North Borneo's farmers into innovative products that bring joy to Malaysians and our consumers worldwide, just as we have with KitKat® Dark Borneo – now introduced in a special ice cream edition that celebrates Malaysia's cocoa heritage and promising future,' said Nestlé Malaysia Chief Executive Officer Juan Aranols. Crafted with 100 per cent responsibly sourced cocoa beans grown in the lush volcanic soil and tropical climate of Sabah and Sarawak, the KitKat® Dark Borneo is a single-origin chocolate that truly reflects Malaysia's rich heritage in cocoa craftsmanship. It delivers a perfectly balanced flavour, not too bitter, not too sweet, as a result of the careful fermentation and sun-drying methods used for the cocoa beans. KitKat® Dark Borneo has also been honoured with the NielsenIQ (NIQ) BASES Breakthrough Innovation Award 2024, a recognition that highlights both the success of the product and the growing appreciation for single-origin chocolate among consumers. The product represents more than just confectionery innovation, it embodies Nestlé's ambitious plan to source 10,000 metric tonnes of cocoa from local Malaysian farms by 2034. This initiative aims to revitalise Malaysia's cocoa farming industry, particularly benefiting communities in Sabah and Sarawak where ideal growing conditions exist. Through the Nestlé Borneo Cocoa Initiative launched in 2023, the company has partnered with the Malaysian Cocoa Board to expand its Farmer Connect program to East Malaysia. The initiative focuses on regenerative farming practices including agroforestry, intercropping, and soil health management to enhance yields while protecting natural ecosystems. The 52 per cent cocoa content chocolate is manufactured at Nestlé's Halal-certified Chembong Industrial Complex in Negeri Sembilan, one of Asia's largest confectionery and ice cream plants. The facility serves as a crucial export hub, supplying Halal KitKat® products to Asean markets and beyond while implementing significant sustainability measures, including biomass boilers powered by renewable energy sources. With Malaysia's cocoa processing sector generating RM15 billion in exports in 2024, primarily through imported beans, the KitKat® Dark Borneo initiative represents a strategic shift toward developing local cocoa production capabilities. The success of this single-origin chocolate, now expanded into an ice cream variant, demonstrates the potential for Malaysian cocoa to compete on the global stage while supporting local farming communities. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
7 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Nestlé showcases cocoa innovation & sustainability at MICF 2025
Nestlé Malaysia chief executive officer Juan Aranols (right) and Ragai Anak Chabu, a cocoa farmer from Sarawak, showcasing the KitKat Dark Borneo chocolate and ice cream — both crafted using single-origin cocoa beans from East Malaysia. KUALA LUMPUR: Nestlé Malaysia took center stage at the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025, highlighting the distinct cocoa heritage of Sabah and Sarawak. The event was held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), bringing together industry leaders and cocoa enthusiasts from around the world. As a Platinum Sponsor, Nestlé emphasised its commitment to sustainable cocoa farming and product innovation. The spotlight was on KitKat Dark Borneo, a premium single-origin chocolate crafted exclusively from cocoa beans grown in Sabah and Sarawak, highlighting the unique flavours of Malaysian cocoa. In a statement, the food and beverage giant said it aimed to source 10,000 metric tonnes of cocoa from local Malaysian farms by 2034, in an effort to revitalise Malaysia's cocoa farming industry. Nestlé Malaysia's commitment to ethical sourcing, halal-certified production and long-term sustainability extends across its cocoa supply chain. KitKat Dark Borneo, developed under this partnership, reflects Malaysia's expertise in cocoa cultivation, crafted with locally grown beans that embody the country's deep-rooted traditions. Nestlé Malaysia chief executive officer Juan Aranols said that with exports reaching RM15bil in 2024, Malaysia's cocoa processing sector continues to expand, largely supported by imported cocoa beans. 'Local cocoa production, however, remains largely untapped, presenting significant opportunities – not only for industry growth but also for enhancing the livelihoods of farming communities, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, where conditions are ideal for cultivating high-quality cocoa. 'Nestlé Malaysia is fully committed to working alongside local stakeholders to expand cocoa farming while upholding the highest standards of sustainability, traceability and human rights compliance. 'We are excited to transform the dedication of North Borneo's farmers into innovative products that bring joy to Malaysians and our consumers worldwide, just as we have with KitKat Dark Borneo – now introduced in a special ice cream edition that celebrates Malaysia's cocoa heritage and promising future,' Aranols said. All KitKat Dark products are proudly produced at Nestlé's Halal-certified Chembong Industrial Complex in Negeri Sembilan, one of the largest Nestlé confectionery and Ice Cream plants in Asia. This facility serves as a pivotal export manufacturing hub, supplying Halal KitKat products to Asean markets and other global destinations.
New Straits Times
25-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Nestle launches Maggi air fryer-friendly marinade range
KUALA LUMPUR: In response to the growing use of air fryers in 42 per cent of Malaysian households, Nestle Malaysia Bhd has unveiled its latest innovation called the Maggi Air Fryer-friendly range of recipes. Marking Malaysia as one of the first markets globally to introduce this innovative range designed for air fryers, the new range includes a brand-new Satay variant and an enhanced line-up of its popular marinades. Nestle chief executive officer Juan Aranols said as air fryers become a staple in more homes, the company is pleased to innovate with solutions that deliver on its promise to make delicious meals even more accessible to Malaysians. Aranols said the Maggi Air Fryer range embodies Nestle's purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life, allowing busy individuals and families to enjoy the flavours that they love with easy preparation. "This launch reflects our deep bonds with Malaysian households and our ongoing commitment to continue enriching cooking experiences that are well-attuned with today's lifestyles," he said. Meanwhile, Maggi Malaysia business executive officer Ivy Tan Link Cheh said while Malaysians love home-cooked meals, many face challenges with time and preparation. "Made with fresh ingredients that deliver authentic taste, our new Air Fryer-friendly " perap" marinade series helps to simplify this by embracing the convenience of modern kitchen appliances, so that everyone, whether seasoned or new to the kitchen, can easily create Malaysian favourites at home. "This innovation reaffirms our brand promise of being every Malaysian's cooking companion, making it easier than ever to serve delicious, traditional flavours that bring families and friends together," she added. The new Maggi Air Fryer-friendly " perap" marinade series features four Malaysian flavours, each crafted with fresh ingredients and a rich blend of traditional spices. The flavours include Ayam Goreng Berempah, Ayam Percik, black pepper and the new Satay variant. The new range provides the convenience to spend less time in the kitchen, and more quality time enjoying good food moments with loved ones.
The Sun
29-04-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Nestle Malaysia posts RM1.77 billion turnover in first quarter
PETALING JAYA: Nestle (Malaysia) Bhd recorded a turnover of RM1.77 billion for its first quarter ended March 31, 2025 (Q1'25), matching the robust sales figures in Q1'24 and reflecting a 20.1% growth compared to Q4'24. For the quarter under review, Nestlé Malaysia delivered profit before tax of RM213 million and profit after tax of RM161.3 million, more than triple Q4'24 earnings and confirming the path to profit normalisation after a challenging 2024. While Q1'25 profit was solid, it moderately contracted against the strong baseline of Q1'24, reflecting an earlier phasing of marketing investments versus 2024, as well as the prudent approach to pricing amidst soaring prices of key commodities, as the company remains mindful of mitigating as much as possible the impact on the purchasing power of the rakyat. Nestle Malaysia CEO Juan Aranols said that first quarter results are encouraging and represent an important step in their journey back to healthy growth levels and profit normalisation after some challenges in the previous quarters. Amid market volatility and intense competition, the company continued to drive solid brand plans with effective execution across all channels online and offline. Aranols said that as they navigate through 2025, they remain vigilant of the multiple factors of volatility in the global market that may impact business conditions, while staying committed to their promise of providing nutritious great-tasting halal products that meet Malaysians' needs across all life stages. He added that they are driving automation and digitalisation within their organisation as key enablers of agile decision-making and savings, which in turn fund brand investments and innovations to strengthen market leadership. 'This is what we call the virtuous circle of profitable sustainable growth, always anchored on a strong understanding of Malaysians' value expectations,' Aranols said. In Q1'25, Nestle Malaysia kept up a solid pace in its environmental, social and governance initiatives, including the expansion of its Project SAVE waste collection beyond Klang Valley to Penang Island. 'While the operating environment continues to present challenges, the signs we are observing in terms of improved consumer sentiments are encouraging. As guided earlier, we are confident in returning to healthy growth levels by H1 2025, and consolidate the normalisation of our profitable and sustainable growth path. We will continue to invest in product innovation and in enhancing our capabilities at all levels – manufacturing, logistics, commercial, etc. 'As we have done throughout our 113 years in Malaysia, we will continue to be a positive force contributing to the wellbeing of the Rakyat. Building on our strong foundation in the nation, we are confident on this outlook, while we carefully monitor global geopolitical and market developments that may affect broader economic conditions,' Aranols said.
The Star
28-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
Nestle Malaysia posts encouraging 1Q results
Nestlé (M) Bhd chief executive officer Juan Aranols. —ONG SOON HIN /The Star PETALING JAYA: Nestle (M) Bhd kicked off 2025 with encouraging results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2025 (1Q25). The company recorded a turnover of RM1.77bil for the quarter under review, matching the robust sales figures in 1Q24 and reflecting a 20.1% growth compared to 4Q24. 'The strong sales momentum was broad-based across brands, which reflects the successful planning and execution of Chinese New Year and Ramadan Hari Raya activities,' the food and beverage company said in a statement. Alongside domestic sales, the company's export business recorded a 2.6% growth. 'Nestle Malaysia continues to build on the international competitiveness of its industrial infrastructure, which is further enabled by the company's role as the largest Halal manufacturing hub for the Nestle group worldwide.' For the quarter under review, Nestle Malaysia delivered a profit before tax of RM213mil and profit after tax of RM161.3mil, more than tripling the preceding 4Q24 profits and confirming the path to profit normalisation after a challenging 2024. 'This performance reflects the company's ability to navigate through a still complex operating environment with sustained pressure on commodity prices through focused efficiency measures and cost optimisation initiatives, as well as solid brand investments to further strengthen its market shares. 'While 1Q25 profit was solid, it moderately contracted against the strong baseline of 1Q24, reflecting an earlier phasing of marketing investments versus 2024, as well as the prudent approach to pricing amidst soaring prices of key commodities, as the company remains mindful of mitigating as much as possible the impact on the purchasing power of the Rakyat.' Nestle Malaysia chief executive officer Juan Aranols said the first quarter results were encouraging and represented an important step in the group's journey back to healthy growth levels and profit normalisation after some challenges in the previous quarters. 'Amidst market volatility and intense competition, we continue to drive solid brand plans with effective execution across all channels online and offline. 'We have seen solid performance throughout the Chinese New Year and Ramadhan / Raya seasons across business segments.' As the company navigates through 2025, Aranols said Nestle Malaysia remains vigilant of the multiple factors of volatility in the global market that may impact business conditions, while staying committed to its promise of providing nutritious, great-tasting Halal products that meet Malaysians' needs across all life stages. 'Additionally, we are driving automation and digitalisation within our organisation as key enablers of agile decision-making and savings, which in turn fund brand investments and innovations to strengthen market leadership. 'This is what we call the virtuous circle of profitable, sustainable growth, always anchored on a strong understanding of Malaysians' value expectations.' While the operating environment continues to present challenges, Aranols said the signs the company is observing in terms of improved consumer sentiments are encouraging. 'As guided earlier, we are confident in returning to healthy growth levels by the first half of 2025, and consolidate the normalisation of our profitable and sustainable growth path. 'We will continue to invest in product innovation and in enhancing our capabilities at all levels - manufacturing, logistics, commercial, etc.' As the group has done throughout its 113 years in Malaysia, Aranols said Nestle Malaysia will continue to be a positive force contributing to the wellbeing of the Rakyat. 'Building on our strong foundation in the nation, we are confident on this outlook, while we carefully monitor global geopolitical and market developments that may affect broader economic conditions.'
