The Beginning Of The Journey
Inspired by The First Starbucks Store in Malaysia
Luqman Hakim, Autistic Illustrator
Embarking on a journey through time, this unique Bearista design pays homage to the first Starbucks store in the country. Welcoming Malaysians since 17th December 1998, our KL Plaza
store was situated at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, marking a significant milestone in the brand's rich history in Malaysia.
Crafted by the talented autistic artist, Luqman Hakim, this Bearista captures the essence of our humble beginnings. From a single establishment to who we are today standing as an
integral part of Malaysian culture and daily life.
In person with the artist.
This bearista is currently displayed at Starbucks Pavillion Kuala Lumpur. Find me
About the artist
Luqman is an autistic illustrator who discovered his passion for drawing early in life. As a hyperactive child, his parents noticed his keen interest in art and always carried pen
and paper for him to draw whenever they were in public. Struggling to fit into society, Luqman received unforgettable advice from his mother: “Don’t try to fit in. Just sit and
draw. Focus on your thing.” These words inspired him, transforming his passion into a successful career 11 years later.
Despite facing discrimination and a challenging childhood due to his autism, Luqman channeled his experiences into his art. He began capturing dynamic human facial expressions,
particularly those of people in desperate struggles to highlight the human spirit of resilience and the fight for one's beliefs. Luqman primarily works with ink on paper and
digital mediums, using his art to tell powerful stories of struggle and perseverance.
Achievements
- MMU International Students Society Award 2018 - Artist of the Year
- 1st Place MMU Got talent 2019 - Quick portrait drawing in front of audience
- 2020 - Starbucks event: Gifting Tan Sri DG Noor Hisham Abdullah his portrait drawn on a Starbucks cup and Tumbler
- 2020 - Designed 5 reusable cups for various front liners
- 2020 - Participated as a featured autistic artist at the ”We are all Special” Charity Event by GSC Cinemas
- Published 10 comic pages - Bandar Hitman in Majalah Fantasia Isu 3.
Future Projects
- Illustrator for Graphic Novel The Dream of Atlantis - Book 1, Written by Jaziri Alkaf Suffian
Expected to release in 2024. - Writer and Illustrator for The Bear.
In pre-production and planning
Purchase this mini bearista to add into your collection. Get it now from your nearby Starbucks store.
A portion of the proceeds from the mini-Bearista will go to the collaborating artists and will also be donated to the Palestine Relief Fund through MERCY Malaysia.
Starbucks Story
The beginning
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, amid the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, a new aroma began to waft through the air in December 1998. The first Starbucks store in Malaysia had just opened its doors in the vibrant KL Plaza. The store quickly became a melting pot of cultures and conversations. Business professionals found a new spot for meetings, students discovered a haven for studying, and friends gathered for leisurely chats over coffees. The success of the first store paved the way for many more across the country. Starbucks Malaysia soon became synonymous with quality coffee and a place where moments were shared, one cup at a time.
