Significant development occurred in 2019 when we met a coffee expert, Johan Kwe, a CQI Q - Instructor also a Q Grader who suggested converting the Simalem Coffee Estate to specialty coffee production according to Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) processing standards. This marked a new era for Simalem Specialty Coffee, enhancing its reputation and showcasing the unique quality and flavor of its coffee, cultivated with care and precision.

Initially, before Johan's arrival, Simalem Coffee was processed traditionally, familiar to the Karo region. The organically grown coffee at Simalem Farm was processed using the wet hull method with simple tools and facilities, drawing knowledge from local communities. In early 2020, Johan Kwe began converting the traditional coffee processing methods into specialty coffee production, naming it Simalem Specialty Coffee. He imparted his expertise to the processing staff, teaching them the best practices for coffee processing. He introduced various specialty processes such as natural process, anaerobic natural process, honey process, and dry hull process. This conversion process included not only staff training but also Johan's suggestion to Eddy to build facilities adhering to CQI standards. That year saw the construction of fermentation tanks, drying houses, and proper coffee storage facilities, transforming Simalem Coffee into Simalem Specialty Coffee.

From 2021 to mid-2024, significant upgrades occurred at Simalem Specialty Coffee, thanks to Johan Kwe's dedication. Alongside facilities, human resources were upgraded to ensure Simalem's specialty coffee processing met standards. Diana, a female staff member, attended CQI's professional coffee processing class, earning the title of Q Processing Professional to ensure quality control. We also hosted various CQI-authorized training events, including CQI Q Processing Level 2 and CQI Fermentation Class, attracting coffee enthusiasts from Indonesia and abroad. Hosting these classes earned Simalem Specialty Coffee the prestigious Q-Venue certification from CQI, recognizing it as an official venue for specialty coffee training. In 2022, under our partner company 3 Beans Coffee and the supervision of our CQI licensed Q Grader and Q Processor, Mr. Johan Kwe, we were appointed to be the official LALCAFE® yeasts distributor for Indonesia.

In early 2024, Simalem Specialty Coffee further upgraded its staff by having Royana certified by CQI. Unlike Diana, who focused on processing and maintaining specialty coffee standards, Royana has been certified as a Q Grader, specializing in evaluating processed coffee. This ensured that all coffee passed through rigorous taste and quality tests before reaching the market.

Through a series of processes, selections, and evaluations, Simalem Specialty Coffee began to attract international attention. Their coffee products have been exported to the USA, Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia. Simalem Specialty Coffee has also won several competitions, including the Singapore Coffee Association (SCA) competition, ranking third globally in cupping scores and first in Asia. Now, Simalem Specialty Coffee has secured a place in the hearts of specialty coffee enthusiasts both in Indonesia and worldwide.

 

Join our Simalem Coffee Academy and embark on an exciting journey into the world of coffee. Whether you're a beginner or an aspiring barista, our hands-on training programs will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to master every step of the coffee-making process—from bean to cup. Guided by experienced professionals, you'll learn about coffee cultivation, roasting techniques, brewing methods, and customer service excellence. At Simalem Coffee Academy, we don’t just teach coffee—we inspire passion and professionalism in every cup.