In recent years, Kelantan has witnessed a noticeable surge in new coffee shops and hipster cafés. From Kota Bharu to smaller towns, the café trend has gradually become part of the urban lifestyle. Many young entrepreneurs are eager to replicate the ambience of cafés in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, offering stylish interiors, latte art, and Instagram-worthy corners.
However, despite this enthusiasm, many of these cafés close down within a year of opening. As an observer, I find this recurring cycle both fascinating and concerning. Why is it so difficult for these cafés to sustain themselves in Kelantan?
1. High Expectations, Low Footfall. Most cafés begin with excitement, targeting young customers who enjoy hanging out, studying, or socialising over coffee. Yet, after the initial months, the number of customers drops significantly. The novelty wears off, and cafés struggle to maintain consistent foot traffic.
2. Mismatch Between Pricing and Spending Power. A latte priced at RM12 may be typical in larger cities, but in Kelantan, many still prefer affordable drinks from kopitiams or roadside stalls. Customers often compare value: “Why spend RM12 on a cup of coffee when I can get nasi kerabu and teh tarik for the same price?”
3. Location Challenges. Some cafés open in less strategic locations, hoping their unique interior design will draw customers in. Unfortunately, without good accessibility or visibility, they fail to attract steady crowds. Parking issues in certain areas also discourage potential patrons.
4. High Operational Costs. Décor, staff wages, rental fees, and imported coffee beans add up quickly. When daily sales are unable to cover these operational costs, financial pressure forces many café owners to close earlier than expected.
5. Limited Market Size. Compared to major cities, the café-going culture in Kelantan remains relatively niche. While students and young professionals enjoy cafés occasionally, it is not yet a daily habit for most people.
What Can Be Done?
1. Adapt to Local Preferences. Introduce a mix of specialty coffee and local flavours, such as a “kopi Kelate latte” or fusion-style desserts.
2. Flexible Pricing. Offer student discounts, combo sets, or “coffee of the day” promotions to make prices more appealing.
3. Build a Community. Organise open mic sessions, book readings, workshops, or art showcases to encourage repeat visits.
4. Focus on Sustainability. Rather than investing heavily in décor, prioritise high-quality beverages and excellent customer service.
Final Thoughts
The café scene in Kelantan reflects both ambition and challenge. It illustrates how global lifestyle trends interact with local economic realities. While many cafés may close within their first year, the lessons they leave behind can inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to build more sustainable and culturally grounded ventures.
