Image by Utusan
What sets this treat apart? It’s the first-ever KitKat crafted exclusively from cocoa beans grown in the lush lands of Sabah and Sarawak, making it a true taste of Borneo.
This innovation aligns with Nestlé Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to localizing its ingredient supply chain. Through the Nestlé Borneo Cocoa Initiative (NBCI), launched last September in partnership with the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB), the company aims to expand its Farmer Connect program to East Malaysia. This initiative not only supports sustainable agricultural practices but also enhances food security and improves livelihoods for local farmers.
Nestlé Malaysia has a long history of supporting local agriculture, dating back to 1985 with chili and rice planting initiatives in various states. In recent years, the company has spearheaded coffee planting ventures in Kedah and Kelantan. Now, with the expansion of NBCI to East Malaysia, Nestlé aims to harness the region’s favorable soil and weather conditions to bolster the cocoa supply and position Malaysia on the global cocoa map once again.
Image by Shopee
The star ingredient of KitKat Dark Borneo is Trinitario cocoa beans, grown in Borneo’s fertile volcanic soil and nourished by its tropical rainforest climate. These beans undergo meticulous fermentation and sun-drying processes, resulting in a chocolate with a rich, creamy taste and distinctive fruity notes.
Crafted at the Halal-certified Chembong industrial complex in Negeri Sembilan, KitKat Dark Borneo is a testament to Nestlé’s commitment to sustainability. The facility, now equipped with a Biomass Boiler plant, significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring Nestlé’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
At the official launch event, Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing local and sustainable sourcing. He emphasized Nestlé’s Farmer Connect program, which now extends to East Malaysia, and its focus on regenerative agriculture practices.
The event was attended by Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Plantation and Commodities, who expressed Malaysia’s potential to thrive in the global cocoa market. He underscored the government’s commitment to revitalizing and enriching the cocoa industry, ensuring economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Image by Places And Foods
KitKat Dark Borneo not only celebrates the flavors of Borneo but also pays tribute to the hardworking cocoa farmers of Sabah and Sarawak. Through initiatives like NBCI, Nestlé aims to empower local communities and foster positive change, one chocolate bar at a time.
