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Farm Fresh Malaysia launches AusFresh Australian milk from their own farms in Australia

Farm Fresh Malaysia is raising the bar in dairy excellence with the introduction of its latest product: AusFresh, a premium milk offering made from 100% Australian milk sourced directly from the brand’s very own farms in Australia. Known for its creamy texture and rich nutritional value, AusFresh is a good source of protein and calcium, delivering 3.4g of protein per 100ml.

Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

With a strong presence in Malaysia through its five local dairy farms, Farm Fresh leverages operations in two Australian farms to deliver AustFresh to Malaysian consumers.

AusFresh (2L) is priced at RM 14.49 at AEON Supermarket.

 

Prego’s Creamy Seafood Mac makes limited edition debut in Malaysia

Prego has unveiled its latest addition to the Instant Pasta Bowl lineup: Creamy Seafood Mac, now available at 7-Eleven and Lotus’s in Malaysia as a limited edition release. This limited-time treat joins Prego’s current instant pasta bowl selection, which includes Mushroom Carbonara Mac and Mac and Cheese.

Perfect for lunch breaks, midnight cravings or a snack on-the-go, Prego’s latest offering brings a splash of indulgence to your everyday meals.

Carlsberg Malaysia Wins Gold at 2025 SEEK People & Purpose Awards for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiatives

(From right to left) Cynthia Soo, Head of Business HR; Wong Siew Peng, Talent Acquisition Specialist; Woo Yi Lei, Manager of Talent Acquisition; Pauline Lim, Vice President of HR Carlsberg Asia; Grace Ho, Senior Manager of Organisational Development; Lim Hui Xian, Assistant Manager of Organisational Development

Four-year diversity journey earns prestigious recognition at the 2025 SEEK People & Purpose Awards

 SHAH ALAM, 15 July 2025 – Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad has secured esteemed honours at the 2025 Seek People & Purpose Awards, taking home the Gold Award for Best Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) in recognition of its workplace transformation initiatives that have redefined corporate culture across the organisation.

The prestigious accolade demonstrates Carlsberg Malaysia’s success in embedding DE&I as a strategic business priority over a four-year journey—positioning the company as a leader in fostering a workplace culture that not only champions diversity but also drives sustainable business and social impact, setting a benchmark for other organisations across the region.

Guided by the company’s purpose of Brewing for a Better Today and Tomorrow, Carlsberg Malaysia has implemented a comprehensive framework focused on four key pillars: Business Priority, Diverse Representation, Equal Opportunities, and Inclusive Culture.

Gold Award for Best Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) at the 2025 SEEK People & Purpose Awards

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition,” said Choy Yen Li, People & Culture Director at Carlsberg Malaysia. “This award is a testament to the collective efforts of our leadership and employees in fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.”

“At Carlsberg Malaysia, we believe that diversity and inclusion are not just values—they are business imperatives. This award reflects our commitment to creating a culture where every voice is heard, every individual is respected, and everyone has the opportunity to grow. We are proud of how far we’ve come, and even more excited about the journey ahead as we continue to brew a better today and tomorrow for all,” said Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.

Carlsberg Malaysia’s DE&I initiatives span multiple areas of impact. The company achieved 63% female representation in the Leadership Team since 2022, while implementing enhanced flexible work arrangements, expanded parental leave, and improved facilities for employees with disabilities. Carlsberg Malaysia has also developed inclusive hiring practices, internal mobility programs, and partnerships with organisations like Enabling Academy to support neurodivergent individuals.

Cultural engagement remains a cornerstone of the company’s approach, with celebrations of all major festivals and hosting of open dialogues such as “Jom! Breakfast with Leaders” to foster belonging and inclusion. These efforts extend beyond the workplace through collaborations with LeadWomen and pioneer member of the ASEAN Inclusivity Collective (AIC), to drive change across the broader business community.

Carlsberg Malaysia’s DE&I efforts are deeply integrated into its ESG commitments, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on gender equality and reducing inequalities.

KHIND Makes Premium Appliances Affordable with New Rent-To-Own Plans Starting at RM70

KHIND Customer Service General Manager Cheng Duo-Ren (third from left) and Head of D2C Teo Yong Hung (second from right) at the launch of KHIND’s new RTO appliance lineup — making premium home solutions more accessible to Malaysians.

Featuring a steam generator iron, multi-door fridge, and 2-in-1 washer dryer — all with just only RM1 upfront cost, free insurance, and doorstep delivery

Kuala Lumpur, 9 July 2025 – KHIND, one of Malaysia’s favourite electrical appliance brands, has introduced an expanded Rent-To-Own (RTO) appliance lineup aimed at helping Malaysian families own premium appliances with only RM1 upfront payment, full insurance protection, and monthly plans starting from just RM70. This comprehensive offering is in line with its tagline, “Senang Jer, Semua Settle”, highlighting KHIND RTO’s goal to be the end-to-end home solutions provider. KHIND RTO’s offerings have now expanded from the laundry segment of washing & drying, to food refrigeration, and now onwards to garment ironing.

This latest offering includes three new and upgraded products: the KHIND ChillMasterX Multi-Door Fridge, KHIND Washer Dryer WD1468 and KHIND SteamGen+ Steam Generator Iron. The lineup addresses key household needs — from garment care and food storage to laundry, while eliminating upfront costs, providing free insurance coverage, and bundling in professional servicing.

“We understand that many Malaysian families are under pressure from inflation and rising expenses,” said Adil Jimmy Mistry, CEO of KHIND Holdings Group. “This RTO offering is our way of saying that essential appliances shouldn’t be a luxury. We’re making it possible for more households to access high-quality products with zero barriers to entry.”

Meeting Malaysian Needs in Challenging Times

The rollout comes at a time when Malaysian households are under growing financial pressure. According to a national survey by UCSI Poll Research Centre, 89% of Malaysians say they are very concerned about the rising cost of living, with many actively adjusting their spending to cope.[1]

KHIND’s RTO model directly answers these shifts by offering a more sustainable, lower-risk alternative to lump-sum purchases or high-interest financing. Through KHIND RTO affordable rent-to-own payment plans, more families gain access to premium products such as 2-in-1 washer dryers and high-capacity side-by-side refrigerators that improve quality of life without having to worry about big upfront payments. With a low deposit of RM1, insurance included, and delivery straight to your door, KHIND is helping Malaysian families reduce both financial stress and everyday hassle.

KHIND’s “Senang Jer, Semua Settle!” campaign features the SteamGen+ Steam Generator iron, ChillMasterX fridge, and 2-in-1 Washer Dryer — from just RM70/month, with RM1 upfront cost only.

KHIND ChillMasterX Multidoor Fridge – Freshness That Fights Inflation

With grocery prices soaring, many households face a growing risk of food spoilage and waste as many people would be buying in bulk during supermarket promotions to save up every little cent possible. The KHIND ChillMasterX was designed to solve that — using AG+ silver ion technology to sterilise air and kill bacteria that causes food to rot early.

This four-door, convertible-zone fridge also features 360° Metal Cooling, a Dual Inverter compressor for quieter, energy-efficient performance, and a no-frost design for easy maintenance. It offers smart storage and freshness that pays off every month by keeping your ingredients usable longer.

The RTO plan begins at RM95/month, and the first 500 subscribers will receive free appliance insurance covering everything from flood to accidental damage.

KHIND Washer Dryer WD1468 – Modern Laundry Solution for Households

The KHIND WD1468 Washer Dryer, which is the upgraded version of its predecessor KHIND WD1438 Washer Dryer, simplifies this with a true 2-in-1 system capable of washing and drying more clothes with its higher capacity — ideal for working parents and space-constrained homes.

The facelifted model includes an 11kg wash and 7kg dry capacity, steam and hot wash cycle, and a fully digital touch panel — replacing knobs with a more intuitive interface. Its BLDC Dual Inverter motor ensures lower power usage and reduced noise, making it ideal for apartment living.

The RTO plan begins at RM99/month for the first six months, and continues at RM125/month thereafter — including full delivery, installation, and servicing support.

KHIND SteamGen+ Steam Generator Iron – A Time-Saver for Daily Routines

For families managing both work and home responsibilities, ironing often becomes a burdensome chore. The KHIND SteamGen+ addresses this with high-pressure steam performance typically found in commercial-grade models — generating up to 300g/min of steam to cut through wrinkles easily and efficiently.

Unlike conventional steam irons, it features an 8-bar pressure boiler, a ceramic anti-burn soleplate, and a removable 1.5L tank for fewer refills. Users also benefit from a built-in Calc Clean indicator to extend the product’s lifespan. To add even more value, subscribers receive a free XXL ironing board worth RM200 with every subscription of the Smart Value RTO plan. Not only that, subscribers are also entitled to comprehensive insurance coverage that offers 1:1 exchange in the event of flood, fire, theft and even accidental damage.

The RTO plan starts from RM70/month, with only RM 1 deposit and no hidden fees.

 

Strong community turnout at KHIND’s RTO launch event, supporting smarter, more affordable home living.

Built-In Protection That Brings Peace of Mind

Each KHIND RTO plan includes free insurance coverage for the full rental duration, protecting users from fire, lightning, flood, theft, and accidental damage. This is particularly meaningful in Malaysia, where flash floods and weather-related risks have grown in recent years.

To ensure product longevity and performance, all subscribers also receive the KHIND Care Plan — a value-added professional servicing program worth RM400 per session. Combined with free doorstep delivery, installation, and full warranty support, the KHIND RTO plan offers a complete peace of mind ownership experience with minimal risk.

Pricing and Availability

Product Monthly Plan Key Features Key Benefits Bonus/ Freebie Insurance Coverage
KHIND SteamGen+ Steam Generator Iron Starting from RM70/month* Anti-burn ceramic soleplate,
8-bar pressure boiler, 300g/min steam
Faster ironing, safe for all fabrics, saves time XXL Ironing Board (worth RM200) Yes
KHIND ChillMasterX Fridge Starting from RM95/month* Dual Inverter, AG+ silver ion sterilisation, 360° Metal Cooling, Convertible Zone Longer food freshness, reduces spoilage, energy saving Free Insurance for first 500 sign-ups Yes
KHIND Washer Dryer WD1468 RM99/month (1st 6 months), RM125/month thereafter* 11kg wash / 7kg dry, steam & hot wash, 18 programs, digital touch panel Kills 99.9% bacteria, one-hour wash & dry, space-saving Doorstep delivery & installation, 3 years laundry capsule supply, comprehensive product insurance & KHIND Care Plan Yes

*Monthly prices listed are based on selected Rent-To-Own (RTO) packages and may vary depending on contract duration, eligibility, and promotions. Terms and conditions apply.

The KHIND RTO appliance lineup is now available via KHIND’s RTO website. Interested customers can sign up directly online or contact KHIND customer service for further information. To learn more or subscribe, visit https://www.khindrto.com.my/.

[1] UCSI Poll Research Centre. “89% of Malaysians Are Concerned About the Cost of Living.” https://www.ucsipoll.org.my/poll-finding/89-malaysians-are-concerned-the-cost-living

 

Hextar World At Empire City Takes A Major Leap Forward With The Signing Of Eight New Tenants

Hextar World at Empire City 4th MoU Signing Ceremony

Introducing key brands in the lifestyle and entertainment industry as they mark a monumental milestone

PETALING JAYA, 14 July 2025 – Hextar World at Empire City continues to expand its list of tenants in preparation for the launch of the mall later with the signing ceremony, where Hextar World introduced eight new anchor tenants Village Grocer, Miami Beach – the largest indoor waterpark in Malaysia, Jungle Gym, Ballet Theatre Malaysia, Sport Planet, Playa Racquet Club, La Boca, and 91 Sports Arena.

“We are proud to welcome these esteemed lifestyle and entertainment brands as our strategic partner tenants in the lead-up to our launch. Their presence in Hextar World underscores the strength of our vision for Hextar World as a premier destination that redefines integrated experiences. As we move closer to unveiling this transformative development, I am confident that Hextar World will set a new benchmark in the industry,” said Dato’ Eddie Ong, Group CEO of Hextar Group.

Village Grocer, one of Malaysia’s most popular premium supermarket brands, brings everyday convenience to shoppers with 28,000 sq ft of retail space located on Lower Ground 1. Complementing the convenience are exciting attractions like Miami Beach, the country’s largest indoor waterpark with 160,000 sq ft of slides, water attractions as well as Malaysia’s first indoor beach featuring a day and night cycle. Malaysia’s biggest indoor playground brand Jungle Gym will also make an appearance with over 12,000 sq ft of play area for young shoppers.

On the cultural front, Ballet Theatre Malaysia – the first professional ballet company in Malaysia that supports aspiring ballet professionals will be introducing its brand-new venue at Hextar World. Adding to the sports and leisure categories are Playa Racquet Club, a trendy beach-inspired pickleball destination that feels like a beach escape; 91 Sports Arena, which offers premium pickleball courts, training, tournaments and facility management with precision, while also expanding globally through regionally tailored sports facilities; and Sport Planet, a multi-brand powerhouse for sports and fashion. At the same time, La Boca brings the heat, rhythm and authenticity of Latin America’s culinary experience.

The introduction of these new business partners will cater to a mixed generation of active lifestyles and family-oriented fun, aligning with Hextar World’s vision concept of becoming The Exploratorium – a place that nurtures discovery and innovation, fosters connection and community, infuses entertainment and adventure, and encourages wellness and active living. 

Positioning itself as more than just a shopping destination, Hextar World is a journey of discovery and connection within a vibrant 15-minute city spanning 1.8 million square feet, offering unique experiences that encourage exploration of new interests, connections with like-minded individuals, and the discovery of new passions. The mall also continues to work towards fostering a sense of community through its diverse offerings and engaging activities.

The signing of eight new anchor tenants marks a significant milestone as the soft launch, scheduled for later this year, approaches. Hextar World looks forward to offering guests an unconventional shopping experience through its distinctive and diverse range of offerings that inspire exploration and foster community. Retailers, investors, and media partners are invited to participate in this groundbreaking development.

For leasing inquiries, media opportunities, and partnership discussions, please contact: info@hextarworld.com.my or leasing@hextarworld.com.my.

DTE Gaming Named Dew Challenge 2025 Champions in Malaysia’s Largest Community MOBA Showdown by Mountain Dew!

Left to Right: Kalithasan Sothinathan, Marketing Manager, Etika; Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing, Etika; DTE.Hao; DTE.Cece; DTE.Qx; DTE.Zunzun; DTE.CM

A six-month nationwide campaign powered by RM750,000 in prizes ends with a new champion and thousands united in celebration of bold gameplay

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 July 2025 – DTE Gaming secured a hard-fought victory to become the official Dew Challenge 2025 National Champion, claiming their place at the top of Malaysia’s community mobile esports scene. Held over three days at Sunway Pyramid’s Blue Atrium, the Grand Finale marked the spectacular close of a campaign that has pushed boundaries, united gamers, and turned everyday community gamers into rising champions of Malaysia’s mobile esports scene.

DTE Gaming emerged victorious with a confident 3–0 win over Team Pirate King from Johor in the best-of-five Grand Finals, displaying strong coordination and smart team fights throughout the series. While DTE maintained control, Pirate King earned their place in the finals with a string of impressive victories, including wins against more experienced opponents. Their run proved that raw talent and fearless play can still disrupt expectations and push new names to the forefront of Malaysia’s community esports scene. The showdown was a reflection of both skill and the growing depth of local competition.

Back Row, Left to Right: Jennifer Wong Su Jen, Brand Manager, Etika; DTE.Hao; DTE.Zero; Eugene Chin, Country Manager, Tencent Games Malaysia; DTE.Zoe, Founder of DTE Gaming; Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing, Etika; Kalithasan Sothinathan, Marketing Manager, Etika; DTE.Cece; DTE.Qx; DTE.Zunzun; DTE.CM. 
Middle Row, Second from Left to Right: PK.Bin; PK.Ren; PK.Hy; PK.Qing; PK.Qs; PK.William
Front Row, Left to Right: TDK.Solo; TDK.Stay; TDK.HuaHua; TDK.Anda; TDK.Daddy.

The champions clinched RM50,000 in cash, exclusive Honor of Kings in-game rewards, including free 25,000 in-game tokens, and the official title of Dew Challenge 2025 National Champion. Meanwhile, runners-up Team Pirate King earned RM25,000 and 15,000 in-game tokens, capping off a breakout run that made them a crowd favourite. Team Todak took third place, walking away with RM10,000 and 5,000 tokens. The tournament also recognised individual excellence with the Finals Most Valuable Player (FMVP) award, presented to DTE.Cece, who received a Republic Of Gamers (ROG) Phone 9 Pro sponsored by ROG for his standout performance.

Their win caps off a six-month journey that included regional qualifiers in Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kuala Lumpur, drawing over 18,000 player registrations and growing into a nationwide phenomenon powered by livestreams, brand activations, and a shared love for the game.

Throughout the weekend, the Grand Finals drew thousands of attendees and a steady stream of online viewership. Fans were treated to a variety of interactive experiences that blended creativity, competition, and celebration, from lucky draws to hands-on challenges and social spaces designed to bring the community together. The Top 16 finalists were also recognised with official campaign merchandise and exclusive rewards provided by Mountain Dew, Honor of Kings and the campaign’s official token provider, SEAGM.

Also returning were the COS-MIC Stars, bringing the Honor of Kings universe to life with immersive cosplay appearances. Fans posed for photos, cheered with the characters, and immersed themselves in the high-energy atmosphere that has defined the Dew Challenge series.

A Platform That Powers the Future of Esports

Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing, Etika Sdn Bhd, shared, “The Dew Challenge has always been about more than competition. It’s about bringing people together — players, fans, families — and creating something they can be part of. What began as a tournament became a community. That’s what Mountain Dew stands for. We support boldness, but we also show up for the people who make it meaningful. Whether you came to compete or just to cheer, this campaign was a space to belong.”

“With the support of our partners at ASUS ROG, Jollibee, The Chicken Rice Shop, 4Fingers, and Tencent, the Dew Challenge 2025 Grand Finale delivered a full-scale experience that stayed true to our values – boldness, energy, and community. Whether you were a finalist or a fan, this was an event to remember.

More than a tournament, Dew Challenge 2025 became a nationwide movement, bringing Malaysia’s gaming community together through months of on-ground qualifiers, live showdowns, and bold brand experiences. From February to July, players and fans rallied across Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kuala Lumpur, culminating in a high-stakes finale at Sunway Pyramid. With RM750,000 in total prizes and the support of key partners including Honor of Kings, ROG, SEAGM, Jollibee, 4Fingers, and The Chicken Rice Shop, the Dew Challenge stood as Malaysia’s most ambitious community MOBA campaign to date, and set the stage for what could be an even bigger chapter ahead.

Stay connected at www.dewchallenge.com and follow @MountainDewMalaysia for the latest updates.

#MountainDewGaming #HOKMalaysia #DewChallenge2025 #FuelYourGame

 

Marriott International Announces Indonesia & Malaysia Winners of 2025 APEC Marriott International Sustainable Bartender Rising Star

Indonesia & Malaysia Finalists of Sustainable Bartender Championship

Talented bartenders revive forgotten flavors with a sustainable approach, inspired by local values at the Indonesia-Malaysia championship in Bali.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 9 July 2025 – Marriott International is shaking up the mixology scene once again with the return of APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship. Back for its second year, the championship spotlights emerging bartenders from across Asia Pacific, excluding China who are redefining mixology: turning forgotten ingredients, zero-waste practices, and local heritage into an elevated guest experiences in every glass. More than just a competition, the 2025 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship acts as a tangible action and catalyst for positive change, incorporating sustainability into the world of mixology.

2025 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship “Rising Stars”

Paying tribute to local heritage, sustainable sourcing, and community empowerment is the vision of the 2025 Marriott International APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship “Rising Stars”. Under the guiding principles of Marriott International’s Serve 360 commitment, this regional championship actively transforms the world of mixology into a hub for both creativity and sustainability.

Through a series of activations in Asia Pacific excluding China, the APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship continues to spark a wave of innovation across the region. Participants are challenged to masterfully blend creativity with deep eco-consciousness and forgotten local ingredients. In addition to bringing sustainability values to life, this platform also significantly empowers associates, fostering their development and encouraging their invaluable contributions. The program will culminate into a Grand Final Regional Competition in September 2025, where winners for each country will compete for 2025 APEC Rising Star title.

“At Marriott International, we’ve always believed that food and beverage is a powerful gateway to understanding culture—it’s how travelers connect more deeply with a destination,” said Masri, Senior Director of Operations, Indonesia & Malaysia, Marriott International. “This championship reflects that belief. It’s not just about great cocktails; it’s about telling stories—of place, of heritage, of purpose, while showing that great hospitality and sustainability can, and should, go hand in hand. By reviving the forgotten ingredients and sustainable practices, these bartenders are preserving heritage while innovating for the future.”

Winners for Indonesia & Malaysia “Rising Stars”

Held on July 1, 2025, at The St. Regis Bali Resort, this year’s Indonesia-Malaysia competition featured 14 finalists, seven from each county, presenting their “Reviving a Forgotten Ingredient” creations. Two winners were selected among the talented bartenders. They are:

Indonesia Winner – I Nyoman Widana

At the heart of the cocktail is the rare Boni fruit, also known as Bignay or Queensland Cherry, which ripens just once a year under the full moon. Once revered in Balinese villages as a symbol of patience and perseverance, this unique ingredient has long faded from memory. Through this thoughtful and evocative cocktail, Widana pays tribute to its legacy, bringing the fruit and its story back into the spotlight.

The Queensland Cocktail
  • Malaysia: Ajit Narinder (Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel & Convention Centre) with “Golden Ritual”
Malaysia Winner – Ajit Narinder

Drawing inspiration from the ancient Aztec empire, the cocktail harmoniously blends the depth of whisky with the tropical vibrancy of Mexican tepache and the warmth of aromatic Asian spices. Ajit’s thoughtful approach to sustainability shines through in his use of locally sourced Josephine pineapple and Bentong ginger, paired with repurposed beer waste, a testament to his commitment to innovative, responsible mixology.

Golden Ritual Cocktail

The winners from Indonesia and Malaysia, and other APEC countries will gather this September to compete for the title of 2025 Sustainable Bartender Champion Rising Star.

Rising Star Finalists to Watch in Indonesia and Malaysia

During this event, Marriott International also unveiled the top finalists from Indonesia and Malaysia who exemplify the creativity and skill in incorporating zero-waste philosophy, heritage ingredients, and storytelling, as talents to watch in shaping the future of mixology across the Asia-Pacific region, excluding China.

Indonesia:

  1. Muhammad Fachry at Natra Bintan, a Tribute Portfolio Resort introduced “Papaya Elixir” inspired by a commitment to reviving overlooked ingredients, particularly the often-discarded parts of tropical papaya.
  2. Dewa Gede Eka Widya Dharma of The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali presented “Tirta Praja”, a sustainable cocktail deeply inspired by the Balinese philosophy of harmony between people, nature, and the divine. This cocktail combines local ingredients like belimbing wuluh for vibrant acidity and cascara, transformed from coffee bean waste for zero-waste approach.
  3. Anil Wardiawan from Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort created “Lautan Rasa”, utilizing Rujak Kuah Pindang, a savory broth made from salted fish, as its core ingredient. The broth is traditionally reused across Balinese dishes.
  4. Eka Candra Budi Riyanto of Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers presents “CIRO”, a tribute to Surabaya, the City of Heroes. The cocktail repurposes discarded semanggi and sweet potato to craft a leather garnish, and transforms spoiled white wine into an elegant syrup.
  5. Ferdinand Samuel from TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, Labuan Bajo introduced “Revive”, a cocktail honoring local traditions and inspired by the imperiled coral reefs, serving as a call for regeneration. This thoughtfully crafted drink blends local Sopi with a zero-waste calamansi juice, kaffir lime syrup, and Kesambi, a native fruit, for a refreshing and complex taste.
  6. Reynaldo Nishfu Ramadhan with The St. Regis Jakarta created “Blanco Pero Verde”, a cocktail inspired by his childhood memories and a tribute to the unique, often-forgotten belimbing wuluh fruit. This thoughtful creation pairs Código Blanco with a house-made belimbing wuluh cordial, while the leftover pulp is transformed into a savory seasoning.

Malaysia:

  1. Yash from W Kuala Lumpur crafted “Ground Zero”, a zero-waste cocktail directly inspired by Malaysia’s ubiquitous mango trees and chrysanthemum tea. It repurposes mango pulp into meringue and gel, transforms brewed chrysanthemum flowers into coasters, and uses a house-made citric solution.
  2. Tean De Zhong (Josh) at Penang Marriott Hotel introduced “Penang Saloma”, a bold reimagination of the classic Paloma deeply rooted in Penang’s vibrant culture. This consciously crafted cocktail blends calamansi juice, soy sauce, Código 1530 Blanco tequila, and upcycled botanicals, then tops it with sustainably brewed Tropical Dragon Fruit Tepache from fruit trimmings.
  3. Reuben of Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur presented “Zesty Refresher”, a cocktail born from the essence of home gardens that serves as a vibrant tribute to tradition and sustainability. This delightful creation blends Elyx Vodka with locally sourced lime, lemongrass, and bunga kantan, utilizing house-made ice cubes and ginger infusions to minimize waste.
  4. Farah Erina representing Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur created “Nangka”, a heartfelt tribute to cherished childhood memories and the irresistible aroma of fried jackfruit. This revitalizing cocktail thoughtfully reimagines a familiar, nostalgic aroma, crafted with fresh, locally sourced jackfruit (nangka) and mango.
  5. Shafina at The Ritz Carlton Langkawi presented “Seri Muka”. Named after a traditional Malaysian dessert, this cocktail transforms beloved flavors of glutinous rice and pandan custard from handpicked pandan leaves from Nibung garden into a contemporary drink that honors locality and sustainability.
  6. Arjenier Leong Xiao Fu of Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu crafted “Borneo 47”, a remarkable fusion brings ancient stories of Borneo by blending Monkey 47 gin with Lihing, a traditional Kadazan-Dusun rice wine, and the often-overlooked betel leaf.

The 2025 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship embodies Marriott International’s enduring commitment to responsible hospitality, demonstrating that exceptional craftsmanship and sustainability are two elements that complement each other. As a celebrated platform, it champions innovation, elevates local ingredients, and inspires meaningful progress across the region.

 

Amo captures Gen Z’s meme culture with whimsical brain rot characters

Indonesian sparkling drink brand Amo is riding the wave by cleverly aligning its product with the quirky Italian brain rot internet movement. In a playful twist, the brand has introduced a new character or visual identity that echoes the “brain rot” style—over-the-top visuals, eccentric personalities, and a flair for meme-worthy chaos.

As internet culture continues to evolve, brands are increasingly tuning into viral trends and niche phenomena to stay relevant. One such trend—the so-called “Italian brain rot”—has taken social media by storm, known for its chaotic, hyper-memed aesthetic often inspired by exaggerated European tropes, retro graphics, and absurd humour.

This strategic shift reflects a broader trend in which brands are actively reconfiguring their packaging, narrative approach, and digital engagement—not solely to promote their products, but to position themselves within contemporary cultural discourse. Amo’s adoption of this distinctive aesthetic transcends conventional marketing, serving as a nuanced nod to the ironic and idiosyncratic humor favored by Gen Z audiences across platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and other emerging digital communities.

Wings Food new Jas Jus Kelapa Muda offers a refreshing boost of tropical hydration with vitamin C

In Indonesia, Wings Food has just given its popular Jas Jus/JasJus powdered instant drink a tropical twist with the launch of a refreshing young coconut variant. Known locally as kelapa muda, young coconut is celebrated for its naturally sweet taste and hydrating properties—making it the perfect flavour to embrace the sweltering heat.

Not only is it wallet-friendly, but each serving is also enriched with Vitamin C, giving consumers an added nutritional boost to support immune health while staying hydrated.

Garudafood unveils new Choco Caramel flavour for Clevo milk range

Image credit: Facebook/pasarkaryatama

Garudafood has elevated its popular Clevo flavoured milk collection by introducing an indulgent new variant – Choco Caramel. This latest addition brings a rich and creamy twist to their lineup, combining the beloved taste of chocolate with the sweetness of caramel for a flavour fusion that’s sure to delight young taste buds and chocolate lovers alike.

More than just a treat, the Choco Caramel Clevo milk is powered by Garudafood’s Nutri Fun formula, designed to support growing children’s nutritional needs. Each serving delivers a boost of essential vitamins, including vitamina A, D, B1, B2, B6 and B12.

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