In the fast-paced world of public relations, where deadlines loom and stress levels can soar, a strategic public relations agency might not be the first place you’d expect to find a trio of feline colleagues padding around the office like they own the place.
But at BzBee Consult, an award-winning integrated strategic communication company, three well-loved cats — Basyirah, Muezza and Ashqar — have become an integral part of office life, bringing an unexpected yet deeply impactful source of calm, companionship and joy to the team.
These aren’t just any office pets. They are family, each with a distinct personality, a defined space in the nearly 7,000-square-foot office, and an uncanny ability to diffuse tension and provide comfort on even the most high-pressure days.
BASYIRAH’S OFFICE TAKEOVER
Basyirah, the eldest, a beautiful British Shorthair, can be aloof at times.
It all started in 2020 when Prof Mohd Said Bani CM Din, the founder and managing director, welcomed his first cat, Basyirah, a regal British Shorthair with a silken blue-grey coat and an air of superiority befitting her name.
Initially, she lived at home, but as Bani’s work hours often stretched late into the night, he noticed her growing insecurity and restlessness. The moment he began bringing her to the office, everything changed.
From the very first day, Basyirah acted as if she belonged. With typical British Shorthair confidence, she strutted into BzBee without a hint of fear, gracefully exploring the space like a true queen surveying her kingdom. Over time, she claimed her own “port” in the office, often curling up behind the curtains in chief operating officer, Ninot Aziz’s office or choosing the lap of public relations consultant Yazmien as her throne of choice.
Though aloof, she formed a deep attachment to Bani, making it a ritual to check on him every few hours, demanding snuggles and kisses before disappearing again. Her presence brought a new energy to the workspace — one that felt more like home.
HEART-MELTING COMFORTER
Muezza, the middle kitty, a blue-eyed munchkin, is everyone’s favourite.
Four months later, a new addition arrived — Muezza, a plump, irresistibly adorable Munchkin with short legs and an oversized personality. The moment he stepped into the office, he claimed it as his own. Where Basyirah ruled with quiet dignity, Muezza charmed his way into everyone’s hearts with his affectionate ‘blinks’ and major cuteness.
He quickly became known as the office’s emotional barometer. If voices were raised in Bani’s office, Muezza would be the first to intervene — jumping onto the managing director’s table and looking straight into his eyes as if to say, “calm down, boss”. His mere presence softened the room, often diffusing tense moments and reminding everyone to take a deep breath.
Muezza mostly stays in Bani’s office, occasionally wandering around before returning to his designated spot. His love for the human touch makes him the easiest to cuddle, and employees often find themselves absentmindedly stroking his fur during brainstorming sessions, unknowingly reaping the benefits of feline-induced relaxation.
THE LION KING WITH A SQUEAKY MEOW
Adik (Ash) is the mischievous one.
By 2023, BzBee had a third addition to its feline family — Ashqar, a golden British Shorthair with a mischievous streak and a vocal demand for attention. Unlike his older siblings, Ashqar doesn’t wait for affection — he demands it, often with an almost comically high-pitched meow that echoes through the office.
At almost two years of age, he moves around like he owns the place, yet he knows his limits — especially when it comes to Basyirah, the “real” queen of the office. He enjoys his own space in the office of BzBee’s head of creative and design, Shahren.
Despite his “wild” energy, Ashqar plays a vital role in keeping the office dynamic. His antics bring laughter, his cuddles bring comfort, and his presence, like his siblings, makes the workplace feel less like an office and more like a shared home.
THERAPEUTIC POWER OF OFFICE CATS
The presence of Basyirah, Muezza and Ashqar is not just about companionship — it’s about wellness. Studies have long proven the calming effects of animals in workplaces, and at BzBee, the benefits are evident daily.
Each staff member has their own unique relationship with the cats. Some find solace in their quiet presence; others seek them out during moments of stress. A few have even made cuddling the cats a necessary part of their creative process.
Even for Bani, the cats have become an unexpected source of balance in his high-energy professional life.
“Having them here makes a huge difference. It reminds us all to slow down, breathe, and remember that no matter how high the stakes are, there’s always room for a moment of warmth,” he confides.
And it’s not just about stress relief; their presence fosters camaraderie, encourages light-hearted interactions, and even helps with employee well-being. With the three felines roaming around, the office isn’t just a workplace — it’s a sanctuary of creativity, comfort, and companionship.
PURR-FECT WORKPLACE MODEL
As workplace wellness becomes more important than ever, the purr-fect feline trio have set a precedent. Their story isn’t just about a businessman bringing his pets to work; it’s about redefining the workplace environment. It’s proof that a touch of warmth, a moment of play, and an unexpected purr can transform a high-pressure office into a thriving, balanced, and happy workspace.
As Muezza, Basyirah and Ashqar continue to rule the office in their unique ways, one thing is certain — BzBee isn’t just a workplace, it’s a home. And these three cats? They’re truly its heart and soul.
Original Link: https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/sunday-vibes/2025/02/1178997/pawsitive-vibes-how-office-cats-are-transforming-workplace