Nestlé Malaysia strengthens commitment to local cocoa with Borneo-focused sourcing  

MALAYSIA – Nestlé Malaysia is expanding its investment in the country’s cocoa sector, unveiling a long-term plan to source 10,000 metric tonnes of locally grown cocoa by 2034, with a focus on supporting farming communities in Sarawak and Sabah. 

The announcement was made during the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre in Kota Kinabalu.  

At the event, Nestlé showcased its KitKat Dark Borneo, a single-origin chocolate made exclusively with cocoa beans from East Malaysia. 

The initiative is part of the Nestlé Borneo Cocoa Initiative (NBCI), launched in 2023 in collaboration with the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB).  

Through this programme, Nestlé has extended its Farmer Connect platform to East Malaysia, providing training in regenerative agriculture, intercropping, agroforestry, and soil health enhancement. 

Nestlé Malaysia CEO Juan Aranols noted that although Malaysia’s cocoa processing industry achieved RM15 billion in exports in 2024, the country remains largely dependent on imported cocoa beans.  

He added that cocoa farming in Sarawak and Sabah is underdeveloped and holds significant potential for growth and community upliftment. 

“There is a major opportunity not only for industry expansion but also to improve the livelihoods of farming communities,” Aranols stated.  

“Nestlé is committed to advancing cocoa farming with high standards of sustainability, traceability, and respect for human rights.” 

The featured product, KitKat Dark Borneo, is made with 100% responsibly sourced cocoa fermented and sun-dried using traditional methods. With a 52% cocoa content, the chocolate is crafted to highlight the unique flavour profile of Malaysian cocoa while maintaining a balanced taste. 

Recognised for its market performance and appeal, KitKat Dark Borneo earned the NielsenIQ BASES Breakthrough Innovation Award 2024. 

Following its success, Nestlé Confectionery Business Executive Officer Carlota Casellas announced the launch of KitKat Dark Borneo Ice Cream, which uses the same dark chocolate from Borneo and features crushed KitKat wafer bits. 

“KitKat has always represented indulgence and joy,” Casellas said. “With KitKat Dark Borneo, we honour our roots and the dedication of local farmers.” 

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