SEPANG – Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook has encouraged fast-growing homegrown café chain Oriental Kopi to expand its presence across major public transport hubs nationwide, citing the brand’s strong reception at airports and its growing recognition among both travellers and policymakers.
The call followed the opening of Oriental Kopi’s latest outlet at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1, positioning the brand at one of Malaysia’s most strategic international gateways.
In a Facebook post, Loke said he visited the outlet after inspecting the newly introduced Green Lane initiative at the KLIA Terminal 1 Arrival Hall.
“After inspecting the Green Lane at the KLIA Terminal 1 Arrival Hall, I had the opportunity to dine at Oriental Kopi, which has just opened its newest outlet at Terminal 1,” he said.
Loke noted that Oriental Kopi has been consistently well received, particularly at airport locations, and said such brands are well placed to enhance passenger experience while projecting a distinct Malaysian identity.
“Oriental Kopi has received very positive response in many locations, especially at airports.
“I have invited its founder, Mr Calvin Chan, to consider opening outlets at other public transport hubs,” he added.
He said the presence of strong local brands at transport nodes such as airports, rail stations and integrated terminals could elevate service standards while supporting the growth of Malaysian enterprises in high-traffic, premium environments.
Strategic Growth Anchored on Visibility and Brand Experience
Meanwhile, Oriental Kopi founder and managing director Dato’ Calvin Chan said the opening of the KLIA outlet represents a strategic milestone in the company’s broader expansion roadmap.
He said the move reflects a deliberate strategy to move beyond conventional retail locations into high-visibility environments that serve both domestic commuters and international travellers.
“KLIA is a key gateway into Malaysia. Establishing our presence here allows us to introduce Malaysian café culture to a global audience, while strengthening our brand positioning at a national level,” he said.
Calvin added that transport hubs offer a unique opportunity to engage customers who value speed, consistency and familiarity, particularly travellers seeking a distinctly local experience.
“Our approach is disciplined and selective. We are focused on locations that align with our long-term brand vision and allow us to deliver the same quality and experience our customers expect,” he said, adding that the company remains open to expansion at other major transport hubs, subject to feasibility.
Endorsements from Senior Leaders
Oriental Kopi’s growth trajectory has also drawn attention from senior government leaders across multiple portfolios.
Recently, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail visited one of the chain’s outlets, while Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing publicly commended Oriental Kopi for its support of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
The endorsements underscore the growing role of local brands in supporting tourism promotion and enhancing visitor experience at key national touchpoints.
A Homegrown Brand Built on Heritage Flavours
Founded with the aim of modernising the traditional Malaysian coffee shop experience, Oriental Kopi has built its reputation on familiar local flavours presented in a contemporary café setting.
Among its most recognisable offerings are traditional kopi, butter toast, and freshly baked egg tarts, items that resonate strongly with local patrons while offering international visitors an accessible introduction to Malaysian café culture.
Industry observers note that the brand’s ability to balance nostalgia with modern presentation has been a key factor behind its broad appeal, particularly among travellers seeking comfort food with a local identity.
As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, Oriental Kopi’s growing footprint at transport hubs positions it as more than just a café chain but as part of the country’s first impression to visitors arriving by air or rail, showcasing Malaysian tastes, hospitality and entrepreneurship at the nation’s gateways. -MalayaDailyToday
