On 1 July 2020, an autistic artist became an overnight internet sensation when his artwork, a portrait of Malaysia’s Director-General of Health, Tan Sri Datuk Seri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, on a Starbucks cup went viral. Luqman is an avid Starbucks fan who spends most of his time in Starbucks stores where he finds inspiration to draw.

In appreciation, the team at Starbucks Malaysia arranged a coffee chat session for Luqman hosted by 2019 Starbucks Brunei Barista Champion, Syafiq Akmal and 2018 Starbucks Malaysia Barista Champion, Remy Razali. It was a unique experience for Luqman as he was taken on a journey to discover and learn about the rare and exotic beans from Starbucks Reserve™. After the session, Starbucks Malaysia presented him with a Starbucks® x Undefeated double-wall mug as a token of appreciation.

On 29 July 2020, Starbucks made Luqman’s dream come true by setting up a meeting with his hero, the Director-General himself, where he presented his drawing of him on the Starbucks cup to thank him for the efforts in containing the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.

Luqman Hakim working on his artwork of Tan Sri Datuk Seri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, Director-General of Health.

Syafiq Akmal (left) and Remy Razali shared with Luqman on the various beans and brewing techniques available at Starbucks Reserve.

Luqman Hakim presented his artwork to Tan Sri Datuk Seri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, Director-General of Health.

Starbucks also collaborated with Luqman Hakim to auction off a series of reusable cups that he had personally hand drawn in an effort to raise money for the Malaysian National Disaster Management Agency’s COVID-19 Fund, which will be channeled towards the operation of quarantine and treatment centers across the country. Starbucks Malaysia will match the final auction amount to be donated.

The series consists of 5 reusable cups, with each design paying tribute to those who had worked tirelessly in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia, including firefighters, health workers, police officers, military personnel, and delivery riders.

Luqman Hakim with his artwork.