KUCHING: The first Starbucks signing store in East Malaysia marks a significant stride towards promoting inclusivity and creating job opportunities for the deaf community.
During its soft launch at VivaCity Megamall, the store saw a vibrant crowd, with a significant representation from the deaf community.
New Sarawak Tribune interviewed several patrons at the outlet, all of whom echoed unanimous praise regarding the seamless communication and ease of ordering drinks despite the unique challenges faced by the deaf community.
The public also expressed hopes for other businesses to follow Starbucks’ footsteps in engaging with differently abled communities and creating a more inclusive workforce.
VANESSA SUE, 35
Pharmacy Technician
This is Starbuck’s way of providing opportunities to the deaf community and offering chances to those who are differently abled, rather than side-lining them in the workforce. It is a way of promoting equality, as everyone deserves the same opportunities. Besides, while most countries have already adopted inclusive practices like this, it is still not as prevalent in our country. I hope this initiative inspires other businesses to follow suit, creating a more understanding and inclusive society.
ELATTA ODITA, 27
Post-graduate Student
This is a good initiative that opens up job opportunities for deaf workers, and it is a significant step forward for our country in terms of inclusivity. Personally, engaging with them was straightforward and didn’t require any extra effort, despite common misconceptions. The ordering and purchasing process also went smoothly as they provided pens and papers for customers to write down their orders.
NAVIN CASSCARIN, 34
Engineer
I find the concept of the first signing store in Kuching really commendable. This is a good way to help the deaf community, who are often marginalised in the workforce. To my surprise, communication during ordering was smooth as the staff can lip-read and use other methods like writing. I think other businesses should follow this path to provide job opportunities and integrate the deaf community into society.
TANIA LEE YI, 27
Safety and Health Officer
Having visited similar stores in West Malaysia, I appreciate how this initiative can expose the public to sign language and raise awareness about the deaf community. Moreover, I believe other businesses should adopt this practice because the deaf community is just like us, with the only difference being a certain disability, which doesn’t hinder their ability to work at all.
