From campus to clouds - MMU Alumnus launches the world’s first halal Masala Tea in a Can
A story brewed in the lecture halls of Multimedia University (MMU) has now taken flight. Gisnervern Arikrishnan, MMU alumnus and creator of the viral “10,000 Cans to Sell” challenge, has officially launched the World’s First Halal Sterilised Masala Tea in a Can — a product redefining Malaysia’s beverage innovation and uniting Malaysians through culture, health, and entrepreneurship.
The grand launch, titled “An Alumni’s Dream,” was held at MMU’s Entrepreneur Development Centre (EDC), drawing hundreds of guests, influencers, and business leaders. The event marked a turning point for Malaysia’s F&B industry — where heritage meets innovation and tradition is reborn through technology.
“We are proud to witness our alumni breaking barriers and setting new global standards,” said Prof. Mazliham Mohd Su’ud, President of Multimedia University. “MMU will always continue to support and nurture entrepreneurship that begins from within our campus walls.
What began as a small campus kiosk has now become a brand ready to travel the world. After two years of research and development, Gisnervern’s company, Leafhaus, is now in talks with AirAsia for a potential collaboration to bring Malaysian flavours to international skies.
Inspired by Tan Sri Tony Fernandes’ RM1 dream, Gisnervern shared, “Tan Sri proved that a Malaysian dream can fly. I wanted to show that a Malaysian taste can travel just as far.”
The collaboration aims to feature Leafhaus Masala Tea and Turmeric Milk on select AirAsia flights and Santan outlets, symbolising freedom, accessibility, and innovation — the same values that built AirAsia into a global powerhouse. The Alumnus also added to his interest to join AirAsia, and is looking forward to doing it right.
The journey didn’t stop with tea. Motivated by Datuk Rosyam Nor’s drive, discipline, and fearless entrepreneurship, Gisnervern developed Turmeric Milk in a Can, another world-first innovation designed to promote wellness through Malaysia’s age-old remedies.
“Datuk Rosyam told the benefits of Turmeric Milk in one of his podcasts with Wonda. This isn’t just a drink — it’s a movement towards natural healing through modern packaging.”
To bring these flavours closer to the people, Leafhaus is now exploring a strategic collaboration with BananaBro, Malaysia’s fastest-growing banana leaf restaurant chain.
Together, the brands aim to make authentic, halal-certified heritage drinks available at every BananaBro outlet nationwide, pairing Malaysia’s beloved comfort food with Malaysia’s proudest new beverage innovation.
“BananaBro represents the evolution of Malaysian dining — youthful, modern, and rooted in culture,” said Gisnervern. “It’s the perfect platform for Leafhaus to connect with every Malaysian, every table, every meal.”
Launched in conjunction with Deepavali, this milestone represents not just business success but personal transformation. Once weighing 138 kg, Gisnervern turned health struggles into strength — crafting a product low in sugar, rich in antioxidants, and built around the principle that “health is the true wealth.”
“My mission now is clear — to sell 10,000 cartons by year-end, not just for profit, but to inspire every young Malaysian to dream big, start small, and stay clean in business.”
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