Starbucks Malaysia recently concluded its year-long ‘Starbucks Art For Good: The Bearista Art Project’ with a finale at Pavilion Bukit Jalil from February 22 to 24.
The event featured contributions from more than 60 Malaysian artists, including Deaf, autistic, and emerging talents, who designed 25 life-sized ‘Bearista’ figures.
The project, launched in December 2023 to mark Starbucks Malaysia’s 25th anniversary, aimed to promote inclusivity in the arts.
It also introduced ‘Mini-Bearista’ collectibles inspired by the life-sized designs, which were sold at Starbucks stores nationwide.
During the final event, Starbucks Malaysia announced a RM500,000 pledge, with RM250,000 allocated to the participating artists and RM250,000 donated to MERCY Malaysia’s Palestine Relief Fund.
The funds are expected to support sustainable development projects such as health, water sanitation, and livelihood programs.
Made it to Malaysia Book of Records
The initiative also received recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records for the “Most ‘Bearista’ Art in a Community Project”.
The closing ceremony included an exhibition of the Bearista figures, a cheque presentation, a performance by DeafBeat Malaysia, and a Deaf coffee-tasting session led by a barista from Starbucks’ Signing Store.
At the event, Starbucks Malaysia introduced its upcoming ‘Get Together’ campaign, a regional initiative focusing on three key areas: people, community, and the environment.