This Starbucks outlet in Bangsar is the first of its kind in the world

From the outside, the Starbucks outlet in Bangsar Village II looks just like your typical Starbucks, but once you walk in, you’ll notice something very different. Instead of calling out beverage orders, the baristas use sign language.

That’s because most of its employees are deaf.

In a world’s first for the coffee company, that particular Starbucks outlet is dedicated to hiring deaf baristas. Working closely with the Society of Interpreters for the Deaf (SID), Starbucks Malaysia hopes to provide employment opportunities for Deaf partners.

“We are proud to support people with disabilities through fulfilling work to create a culture of empowerment and to bring new perspectives to the workplace, which ultimately makes us a better company,” Sydney Quays, Managing Director of Starbucks Malaysia, said in a press statement.

Currently, there are ten Deaf partners and three hearing partners employed at the store. Leading the team is store manager Evonne Lo, who joined Starbucks three years ago.

“When I first heard of this initiative, I immediately signed up for the position and the challenge.

“I think it will be a truly rewarding experience,” Lo said.

Photo: Starbucks

Evonne will be supported by Mohammad Aizad Bin Ariffin, a Deaf partner who was recently promoted to Shift Manager.

“Since I joined Starbucks three years ago as a barista, my goal has been to become Starbucks Malaysia’s first Deaf store manager and after my recent promotion to shift manager, I’m well on way to achieving this dream.

“It’s an incredible feeling to share my journey and help develop other Deaf partners,” Mohammad Aizad said.

Two sign language interpreters will also be based at the outlet to translate during hiring, training and coaching for Deaf partners. They will also teach sign language to hearing partners at the store.

Photo: Starbucks

At this newly-renovated outlet, the ordering method is very different compared to the other Starbucks outlets.

You are required to fill in your order on a menu card. The baristas will then key in your order, which is displayed on a point-of-sale dual screen, to make sure that your order is accurate.

You will then be given a number, which will flash on a screen when your order is ready for pick up.

So the next time you find yourself at Bangsar Village II, do remember to stop by the Starbucks outlet and give the baristas a thumbs up.



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