AMBITION is rarely in short supply among young Malaysians, but bridging the gap between raw aspiration and tangible success often hinges on an elusive catalyst: opportunity.
To help youth turn budding ideas into reality, Nescafe (Malaysia) Bhd (Nestle) has pledged a RM500,000 commitment through its newly launched youth empowerment initiative, ‘Projek Hidupkan Duniamu’.
Building on the Nescafe Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (NYEP), the refreshed six-month initiative equips selected high-potential youths with direct financial support, industry mentorship, and a platform to amplify their projects.
The brand unveiled this initiative during its six-day concourse showcase, ‘Hidupkan Duniamu Bersama Nescafe’, held at IOI City Mall in Putrajaya from Sept 8 to 13.
Rooted in Nescafe’s global ‘Make Your World’ philosophy, the programme’s renewed focus stems from insights gathered during nationwide community outreach campaigns, including its ‘Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Bersemangat Bersama’ drive, which engaged frontliners across airports, hospitals and military bases. ta
Speaking at the launch, Nestle Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei chief executive officer Juan Aranols noted that these engagements highlighted the remarkable drive of youths juggling education, careers and financial responsibilities.
“Through our engagement with communities and frontliners across Malaysia, we witnessed the power of purpose and determination in helping people overcome challenges and pursue what matters most to them,” said Aranols.
“Their stories reminded us that while ambition is abundant, access to opportunities can often make the difference.”
Aranols added that the initiative aims to give youths the practical stepping stones needed to build meaningful ventures.
“At Nescafé, we believe that every good cup of coffee has the power to recharge, inspire connections and fuel possibilities for all Malaysians to create their own world.”
“Through Projek Hidupkan Duniamu, we hope to provide young Malaysians with the confidence, support and opportunities they need to take meaningful steps towards their future.”
Turn 60 seconds into opportunity
To vie for a place in the six-month programme, young Malaysians must pitch their ideas by uploading a 60-second TikTok video explaining why they deserve a place.
Submissions will officially open on Oct 1, coinciding with International Coffee Month.
Highlighting the scope of support available, Nestle Malaysia business executive officer for coffee Norkhayati Mohamed Hashini explained that the initiative is designed to offer a complete ecosystem for emerging talent.
“Through the Projek Hidupkan Duniamu initiative, we provide comprehensive support to young people who are selected through financial assistance, mentorship and platforms for them to share their experiences and their journey to the next generation,” she said.
“With an investment of up to RM500,000, we hope to help them to give support to their interests and aspirations while building a path that is more equitable towards earning income and reaching their dreams.”
Selected participants will receive financial assistance to give them greater flexibility to focus on their ambitions, backed by hands-on coaching from seasoned industry practitioners.
Experiential roadshow goes nationwide
Beyond the launch of this programme, the concourse showcase featured interactive consumer zones and tasting booths highlighting new additions to the brand’s beverage line, including Nescafe Espresso Concentrate, Nescafe Spanish Latte and Nescafe Tiramisu Latte, alongside appearances by celebrity partners Black Hanifah and Yusof Hashim.
Following its Putrajaya premiere, the roadshow will tour major retail locations, including upcoming stops at Sunway Pyramid in Petaling Jaya and Queensbay Mall in Penang.
Youths eager to learn more about the submission criteria and eligibility guidelines for the Oct 1 rollout will find them available via Nescafe Malaysia’s official social media channels and website www.nescafe.com.my
