It is estimated that Sabahans consume up to 200 million cups of various coffee drinks a year. The beverage can come in different variations; from local Kopi-O to hotel brewed, and presently riding the contemporary wave of espresso based, if not “boutique coffee” made by new apparatus.

The food & beverage sector is a solid backbone of Sabah’s dominant service sector, fulfilling the burgeoning tourism sector’s needs. In 2012 alone the sector employed over 100,000 people or 7% of the state economy’s total employment number.

To better cater to this growing sector of sustainable importance, DBKK has taken the lead to organise Sabah International Coffee Festival, encompassing exhibition, coffee demonstration, and competitions for aspiring baristas or coffee makers to showcase their skills.

Sabah International Coffee Festival was inaugurated in 2018, and is organized annually to showcase the rich natural offerings, coupled with Sabah’s rich culture comprising diverse indigenous customs, traditions and rituals. Tourists from both domestic and international sources are welcome to visit and partake in the celebrations, to enjoy Sabah’s food and beverage hospitalities, visit places of attractions, immerse in the culture, and bring home memories with products.