GEORGE TOWN: Six-year-old Justin Chung can now boast a decidedly professional skill: effortlessly angling a pitcher filled with frothed milk to create a signature heart-shaped design on a cup.
The preschooler was all eyes and ears as he mastered the art of “Latte Art” on his hot chocolate, performing just like a professional barista at the recent Children Friendly City: Little Barista event.
“This is exciting for me, as it is the first time I am watching and learning latte art.
“It is a new experience for me, and it is fun to come with my mum and dad.
“The hot chocolate is tasty too,” he said as he enjoyed a sip of his work of art.
Justin, who heard about the event from his kindergarten, was sad as his fellow classmates did not join in but was happy to have made new buddies.
“I am having a great time.
“I even learnt to brew coffee, although I have not tried it; my parents drank it,” he said.
Chloe Yu, eight, was enjoying herself as she learnt the art of brewing coffee and making heart designs on her hot chocolate.
At the event with her cousins, she was seen exchanging notes with them as they enjoyed their creations.
“I am making a heart on my drink for the first time.
“It was not difficult as they helped me do it. I am excited to try this at home,” she said.
Shek Zi Wei, eight, attended the event with his mother and expressed enjoyment in learning how to angle the pitcher, despite his dislike for hot chocolate.
“I have seen my parents make coffee but never with a design.
“It was fun to learn,” he said.
The event was organised by Penang Island City Councillor Koay Gaik Kee under the council’s partnership with Unicef Malaysia to create activities and spaces that make Penang a happier, safer and more enjoyable place for children.
Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran praised the event as a creative and meaningful initiative.
“Through our collaboration with Unicef, we are committed to building an environment where every child, regardless of background, can live, learn, play and grow safely and happily in our city.
“It is about designing a city that listens to children’s voices, values their ideas and provides opportunities for them to be part of shaping our shared future,” he said.
