If you’re a regular in Malaysia, especially Johor Bahru, you’ve probably seen or even queued at the popular coffee chain Oriental Kopi.
The queues at their outlets can get so long, it’s enough to make you think twice about waiting.
But despite their popularity, the chain recently came under fire.
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Here’s why: Oriental Kopi announced a 10% to 15% service charge hike for the first two days of Chinese New Year. And let’s just say… people weren’t happy.
M’sia Oriental Kopi Removes CNY Surcharge After Backlash
The surcharge announcement was made on 20 January 2025.
A photo of the notice was shared on the @malaysia.shoppingmall Threads account a day earlier, though it’s unclear which specific outlet it came from.
The hike was supposed to be in effect on 29 and 30 January 2025.
Oriental Kopi clarified that this increase wasn’t part of the 6% Sales and Service Tax (SST) but an additional charge.
After customers voiced their frustrations, the coffee chain quickly backtracked.
In a Facebook post on 22 January, they apologised and confirmed there’d be no surcharge after all.
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“We are very sorry for the inconvenience caused over the past few days.
“During this Chinese New Year, our service charges will remain unchanged, and no adjustments will be made,” the coffee chain said on Facebook.
Mixed Reaction from Customers
As expected, the initial announcement sparked a lot of debate online. Some netizens were furious, while others thought the surcharge was justified.
A few people argued that staff working over the holidays should get extra compensation, so the increase made sense.
Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry stepped in, encouraging people to report any unreasonable price hikes during festive periods.
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Businesses caught hiking prices unfairly could face some pretty hefty fines – up to RM500,000 (S$152,000) for a first offence and double that for repeat violations.
Kopi Oriental Launched First Overseas Outlet in Singapore in November 2024
Founded in 2021, Oriental Kopi has made a name for itself as a beloved Malaysian coffee chain, serving up local favourites like nasi lemak, mee siam, and kaya toast – a treat that might remind Singaporeans of Ya Kun Kaya Toast.
But what really sets them apart? Their egg tarts, which hold the record for the thickest in Malaysia, as certified by the Malaysia Book of Records.
In just a few years, Oriental Kopi has grown rapidly, with 14 outlets across Malaysia in key locations like Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Johor, and Penang.
Taking their success to the next level, they partnered with Singapore’s Paradise Group to open their first overseas outlet at Bugis Junction in November 2024.
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If you’re a fan, here’s good news: they’re planning to open eight more outlets in Singapore over the next three years.
Here’s what NCMPs are, and what to expect after GE2025:
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