Mohammad Thoriq Yazuar

"Mustakim brings a rare dual perspective to specialty coffee as both an experienced roaster and a second-generation producer. Starting his journey as a coffee roaster in Central Aceh in 2008, where he operates his own roastery, Lereng Coffee, Mustakim reached a defining turning point in 2016 when he assumed responsibility for managing his family's heirloom coffee farm in the Gayo Highlands. His background behind the roasting machine directly informs his post-harvest decisions. Managing high-altitude volcanic slopes with shade-grown trees and mineral-rich soil, Mustakim understands how cool mountain air and diurnal temperature swings allow cherries to mature slowly, accumulating rich sugars and complex acidity.
For Cup of Excellence 2026, he prepared a Natural lot with strict cherry sorting, precise fermentation climate controls, and monitored drying to showcase the pristine Gayo terroir.
Advancing to Cup of Excellence is a milestone he shares with his team and family, serving as an inspiration for local Gayo producers to showcase their origin on global platforms."

“True precision and passion belong to our silent heroes. Their uncompromised dedication at origin is what elevates our Gayo coffee to the world stage.”