Latest news with #MalaysianInternationalCocoaFair
The Star
4 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.
Daily Express
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
Nazlee wins Best Design Award
Published on: Wednesday, May 28, 2025 Published on: Wed, May 28, 2025 By: Ricardo Unto Text Size: Caira, Zayana and Nazlee with the other top three winners, competition judges and organising committee members. Kota Kinabalu: Nazlee Roslee came out on top at the Chocolate Fantasy Runway Challenge (CFRC) 2025, earning the Best Design Award with a bold, ethnically-inspired creation that fused Sabah's Murut heritage with chocolate-themed materials. The fashion competition's second edition was held in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here on Saturday. This year's theme, 'Choco Neo Culture', called on designers to experiment with innovative forms, sustainable materials and storytelling rooted in cultural pride and contemporary expression. Six participants took part in the competition organised by the Malaysia Association of Ethical Fashion Designers (MAEFD), a non-governmental organisation (NGO) advocating for responsible fashion. Nazlee, a part-time designer and full-time Immigration Officer at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), emerged as the winner after a week-long effort crafting his ensemble. He said his inspiration stemmed from the traditional attire of the Murut community, combined with a modern, eco-conscious design process involving epoxy resin, glue gun work and fabric layering. Advertisement Despite limited time, Nazlee managed to produce an outfit featuring elaborate handcrafted details that required up to two days to dry, particularly those involving resin components. Nazlee credited his success to the support of his model, Sweet Chin Yee Hiu, and makeup artist Noorjana Rikun, expressing gratitude for their contributions to bringing his vision to life. 'I'm happy, of course,' he said after being announced as the winner. 'Thank you to everyone involved. This was a team effort.' According to Nazlee, this was his first time participating in an event aligned with the international cocoa festival, and he saw it as an opportunity to reconnect with his design roots. He revealed that although he had been designing for over a decade, his creative work has been part-time due to the demands of his government post, where he has served for nearly 20 years. Nazlee described balancing his job and his passion as 'challenging,' especially with shift-based work but said his love for design keeps him motivated. 'I used to sew before I joined the civil service. 'This win gives me the motivation to keep going.' He added that while newer designers are making waves, he believes there is value in collaboration between experienced and emerging talents to elevate the local fashion scene. Nazlee's winning design was originally meant to include a colourful waist accessory typical of traditional Murut wear, but he had to improvise due to time constraints. He said his creative process began with online research, followed by sketches and multiple revisions to adapt to material availability and design feasibility. Runner-up Alesha Lenson and third-place winner Fatin Fatinah Rusdi were also commended for their imaginative interpretations of the Choco Neo Culture theme. MAEFD President Zayana Yazed said the event was more than just a fashion show, calling it a celebration of creative vision, sustainability and ethical fashion. The competition aimed to empower local designers and provide a national platform for exposure, networking and professional growth, she said. Zayana emphasised that the CFRC is part of a larger movement to reshape the future of Malaysian fashion through sustainability, culture and innovation. Founded by fashion educators, designers and consultants, MAEFD continues to support initiatives that promote ethical design and empower creative communities. The prizes were presented by Sabah Socso Senior Assistant Director Caira Geoffrey Abdullah. * 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
Borneo Post
6 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
More farmers should venture into cocoa cultivation - CM
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin (right) presents Dr Jeffrey with a token of appreciation. KOTA KINABALU (May 27): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor wants to see more farmers venturing into cocoa planting and expanding the 3,000 hectares of land already in cultivation in Sabah. He said there has been a surge in international demand for Malaysia's cocoa products, with export values hitting a record RM15.06 billion last year, three times that of 2023. 'We are proud that Sabah has played a pivotal role in this success, accounting for over 60 per cent of the nation's cocoa output. 'I am heartened that about 3,000 cocoa farmers in the districts of Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau and Kuamut have benefited,' he said at the Cocoa Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair 2025 (MICF 2025) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here on Tuesday night. His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I/ Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. Hajiji said this was a momentous occasion for Sabah and reflected the state's significant role in Malaysia's cocoa industry. He commended the Malaysian Cocoa Board for the exemplary efforts in driving this success. The Chief Minister hoped the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) and gala dinner would bring about long-lasting benefits, from new partnerships and investments to increased global awareness of Sabah's strength, not only as the main cocoa-producing state in Malaysia, but as a destination for business, tourism and culture. 'We also express our heartfelt thanks to the international exhibitors and cocoa producers, to our local entrepreneurs and SMEs, to our academic institutions, and of course, to the many sponsors and partners, both from Malaysia and abroad, who have made MICF 2025 a success,' he said. Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin who was also at the dinner attended by about 1,400 attendees, extended warm greetings on behalf of the Ministry and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the festival's overwhelming success. 'It is a great honour for me to represent the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities Malaysia at tonight's event,' he said in his opening remarks. Chan lauded the strong collaboration between federal and state entities, highlighting Sabah's vital role in Malaysia's cocoa industry. 'Sabah has always been an essential part of Malaysia's cocoa industry, and we are proud to hold this festival here,' he said, extending his gratitude to the Sabah State Government for their unwavering support. The Member of Parliament for Kota Kinabalu welcomed both local and international guests of the event saying, 'I am delighted that MICF 2025 is being held here in Kota Kinabalu, as it provides a valuable boost to our local economy.' He underscored his personal involvement in the event's journey, from the pre-launch in January to officiating the Choco Rush flag-off on Sunday morning (May 25). 'The Choco Rush was a meaningful initiative that highlighted the nutritional and energising value of cocoa and chocolate as food and beverages,' he noted, adding that the event drew more than 1,000 running enthusiasts. Reflecting on the festival's official opening earlier in the day, officiated by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Chan expressed admiration for the crowd and the vibrant exhibitions. 'I was truly impressed by the enthusiastic crowd and the vibrant exhibitions showcased by various cocoa companies. I am especially proud of the strong presence of Malaysian and Sabah-based chocolate brands such as Beryl's, Benns Ethicoa, Benns Chocolate, Cocoa Kingdom, and many more,' he said. Chan acknowledged the international delegates, exhibitors and local entrepreneurs whose participation added prestige and dynamism to the festival. 'This evening is a special occasion for the cocoa fraternity, a celebration of our shared achievements. It is a moment to pause, reflect and express heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has attended and contributed to MICF 2025,' he stressed. He paid tribute to those who worked behind the scenes, as well as the festival's key supporters and sponsors. 'My deepest gratitude goes to those who supported the organisation of MICF 2025, whether through funding, product sponsorships, manpower, influence, or invaluable guidance,' he said. He made special mention of the Sabah State Government, the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), and 27 strategic partners, including Diamond Strategic Partner Guan Chong Cocoa Manufacturer Sdn Bhd and Platinum Strategic Partners Nestlé Products Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Overseas Supply Trading (M) Sdn Bhd. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Malaysian Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia Airports Berhad, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, and others. 'Let us remember that sweetness is not only found in chocolate, it is also in the relationships we build, the respect we show, and the visions we share. May this evening serve not only as a meet-and-greet, but also as a meaningful platform for networking, one that continues even after we return to our respective homes and communities,' he said.
Daily Express
6 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Research and development plays key role in cocoa competitiveness
Published on: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Published on: Tue, May 27, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Malaysia must revive local cocoa production to gradually reduce the imbalance between the robust downstream sector and the upstream market. Kota Kinabalu: The Malaysian government, through the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB), plays a key role in driving cocoa research and development (R&D) to boost the industry's competitiveness. Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said the MCB's R&D centre specialises in cocoa cultivation, post-harvest processing, breeding and mass management, and quality control as well as product development. 'Our efforts in the upstream sector continue to bear fruit with cocoa beans production increasing by 65 per cent from 269 tonnes to 445 tonnes last year,' he said in his keynote speech at the launch of the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025 here on Monday. Also present were Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister, Datuk Chan Foong Hin, MCB chairman Datuk Matbali Musah and MCB director-general Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin. Johari said Malaysia must revive local cocoa production to gradually reduce the imbalance between the robust downstream sector and the upstream market. He said the focus is on premium cocoa varieties such as fine flavour beans, single-origin beans and organic beans to meet global quality demands. Advertisement 'To embrace a sustainable and responsible cocoa supply chain, we will continue to work on the National Cocoa Traceability System which is currently in progress. Once complete, I encourage those who import cocoa beans to bring this system to their source countries and work with farmers there to embrace sustainability at the plantation level,' he said. Meanwhile, Johari said Malaysia is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, reducing methane emissions by 30 per cent, and maintaining forest cover at no less than 50 per cent. He said this is why the implementation policies prohibit deforestation and focus on good agricultural practices with quality planting materials. 'We're embarking on sustainable plantation practices that will yield higher returns and premium prices for farmers in the future while protecting our environment and forests,' Johari added. MICF 2025 is organised by the MCB from May 24-27, featuring exhibitions, conferences, cultural dinners, business matching and business talks. The event has attracted 1,000 participants from 16 countries, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, investors and government stakeholders to explore the latest trends and technologies in cocoa. * 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
Barnama
6 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
UPSI-MCB Ink Pact to Boost cocoa Research, Innovation
IPOH, May 27 (Bernama) -- Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) and the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in research, product development and training within the country's cocoa industry. In a statement today, UPSI said MCB chairman Datuk Matbali Musah and MCB director-general Datuk Dr Ramle Kasin witnessed the signing ceremony held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in Kota Kinabalu last night in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025. UPSI was represented by its Academic and International Affairs director, Associate Professor Dr Ridzwan Che Rus, who said the MoU, an initiative by UPSI's Faculty of Technical and Vocational Education (FTV), aims to strengthen collaboration in research, product development and training within the country's cocoa industry.
