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“THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026” Reinforces Its Position as Asia’s Leading F&B Trade Platform, Returning This Year ‘BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director-General of DITP

The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Koelnmesse, Germany, is preparing to host “THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026”, Asia’s most comprehensive and influential food and beverage trade exhibition. This year’s edition will once again be held under the concept Beyond Food Experience, returning with a stronger proposition of “BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER”. The event will serve as a global platform for entrepreneurs and industry players to discover products, services and innovations, engage in business negotiations, build networks, and stay ahead of emerging trends — all aimed at elevating businesses to compete on the global stage.

Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director-General of DITP

Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director-General of DITP, stated that THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA is widely recognised as a comprehensive sourcing platform for food products and innovations, effectively connecting high-quality buyers and sellers from around the world. This has led to meaningful business collaborations and global success. As such, the event has become a key destination for professionals across the food industry. This year, the three organisers have further elevated the event experience under the theme “BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER”, making it larger in scale, higher in quality, and more distinctive than ever before.

In terms of BIGGER, the exhibition space has been expanded with the addition of a new venue at Hall 4, IMPACT Forum, bringing the total exhibition area to 140,000 square metres. The event will be organised into nine key sectors: Drinks, Fine Food, Food Technology, Frozen Food, Fruits & Vegetables, Meat, Rice, Seafood, and Sweets & Confectionery. Each sector will showcase a diverse range of products, including general consumer goods, halal products, organic food, health and functional food, specialised nutrition, as well as future and sustainable food innovations, creating greater opportunities to meet evolving business needs.

Under the BETTER dimension, the event will continue to strengthen its role as a high-quality business matching platform, connecting buyers and sellers with strong potential. This year, participation has grown significantly, with over 3,000 companies from 60 countries confirmed to exhibit, spanning East Asia, ASEAN, Europe, the Americas, Latin America, the Middle East, and Australia.

For BOLDER, the event will offer more dynamic and inspiring experiences through a series of enhanced activities, including the THAIFEX – Anuga Trend Zone, showcasing the latest market trends; the tasteInnovation Show, highlighting outstanding innovative products; the Future Food Experience+ seminar programme; and THAIFEX – Anuga Startup, a dedicated space for emerging entrepreneurs. The event will also feature the renowned Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge, an international culinary competition.

Recently, the organisers held an exhibitor briefing session for THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 to provide detailed information on the overall event, participation guidelines, construction and booth design, traffic arrangements, and regulations. The session saw strong attendance from exhibitors, reflecting high interest and readiness for the upcoming event.

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 will take place from 26–30 May 2026 at IMPACT Challenger Halls 1–3, IMPACT Forum Hall 4, and IMPACT Exhibition Centre Halls 5–12, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok. Trade days will be held from 26–30 May 2026, 10:00–18:00 hrs, while the event will be open to the general public on 30 May 2026, 10:00–20:00 hrs.

For further information, please contact the Department of International Trade Promotion at 1169. Visitors are encouraged to pre-register for convenience at: https://registration.thaifex-anuga.com/s/OAlRMg

Nestlé Malaysia Achieves 100% Locally Sourced Chillies for MAGGI Chilli Sauce

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Marking Nestlé Malaysia’s achievement of sourcing 100% locally grown chillies for its MAGGI Chilli Sauce through the Nestlé Chilli Club contract farming programme, supporting national food security and sustainable livelihoods for B40 farming communities. YB Tuan Haji Akmal Nasrullah Bin Haji Mohd Nasir, Minister of Economy [centre] and Mr. Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer, Nestlé Malaysia [front row, centre right]; flanked by Ivy Tan Link Cheh, Business Executive Officer, Food, Nestlé Malaysia [back row, centre left]; alongside representatives from Nestlé Malaysia, the Ministry of Economy, and the Farmers’ Organisation Authority (LPP), visiting the IPR-INTAN Putrajaya chilli farming project.

Milestone marked by Economy Minister’s visit to IPR‑INTAN Putrajaya chilli farming project

Putrajaya, April 17, 2026 – YB Tuan Haji Akmal Nasrullah Bin Haji Mohd Nasir, Minister of Economy, together with Nestlé Malaysia had an official visit to the IPR‑INTAN Putrajaya Project, showcasing how well-structured farmer partnerships can strengthen national food security while creating sustainable livelihoods for B40 communities.

During the visit, the Minister was briefed on the impact of the high‑yield chilli farming initiative, including improvements in farmer incomes, productivity and integration into Nestlé Malaysia’s local supply chain. The project is supported by the Nestlé Chilli Club, the Company’s long‑standing contract farming programme established in 1995, and reflects Nestlé Malaysia’s continued commitment to local sourcing and food system resilience.

The contract farming initiative supports local farmers across 12 sites in Kelantan, Selangor, Putrajaya and Johor, covering 146 acres of land. It provides income security, skills development and stable demand through a fully traceable chilli supply for Nestlé’s locally produced MAGGI Chilli Sauce. Following years of consistent growth, the Nestlé Chilli Club now meets 100% of MAGGI Chilli Sauce’s fresh chilli requirements, reinforcing Nestlé Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable, locally sourced food production.

Mr. Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Malaysia, said, “Supporting the livelihoods of local farmers is integral to both our value chain and the nation’s food security agenda. Long‑term partnerships with farming communities and government stakeholders, including our collaboration with IPR‑INTAN under the Ministry, reflect our shared responsibility to build a more resilient and self‑sufficient food system while empowering B40 households.”

Marking a key milestone, Nestlé Chilli Club achieves 100% of MAGGI Chilli Sauce’s fresh chilli requirements, reinforcing Nestlé Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable, locally sourced food production.
From right to left: Amir Bin Matamin, Director‑General, Farmers’ Organisation Authority (LPP); Datuk Wira Haji Mahfuz Bin Haji Omar, Chairman, LPP; YB Tuan Haji Akmal Nasrullah bin Haji Mohd Nasir, Minister of Economy; Mr Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer, Nestlé Malaysia; and Dr Ab Razak bin Kasbollah, Chairman, Kuala Langat Area Farmers’ Organisation (PPK).

Farmers participating in the IPR‑INTAN Putrajaya project earn an average monthly income of approximately RM3,000. Now in its fifth cycle (2026), this development has produced more than 200 tonnes of chillies valued at approximately RM1.5 million, underscoring the role of structured smallholder farming in supporting B40 communities and national food security objectives.

Nestlé Malaysia supports participating farmers with training in modern, eco‑friendly regenerative agricultural practices to enhance yields and farm productivity. By integrating locally grown chillies directly into its food manufacturing value chain, the Company provides consistent demand and long‑term market access for farmers.

Established in Kelantan in 1995 in partnership with Pertubuhan Peladang Kawasan Bukit Awang and local farmers, the Nestlé Chilli Club later expanded to Terengganu, and Selangor in 2021 with support from Pertubuhan Peladang Kawasan Kuala Langat. In 2025, a greenhouse project was developed with Chin Siam Chiap (CSS) Johor. These collaborations have enabled more farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices while ensuring a stable year-round local chilli supply.

Nestlé Malaysia’s commitment to food security and economic resilience is anchored in its Farmer Connect programmes, which support hundreds of farmers across its chilli, rice, cocoa and coffee initiatives. The programmes strengthen farm economics and productivity through regenerative agriculture and long-term capacity building. This includes targeted agronomy support and knowledge transfer in sustainable rice cultivation in Kedah and Perlis, responsible cocoa sourcing in collaboration with the Malaysian Cocoa Board in Sabah and Sarawak, and coffee farming programmes in Kedah and Gua Musang, Kelantan.

Guided by its Creating Shared Value approach, Nestlé Malaysia will continue to build a more sustainable food future by strengthening local sourcing and resilient supply chains.

KPJ Hospitals–Novo Nordisk signs MoU to tackle Malaysia’s RM64 Billion obesity crisis with structured hospital care

By
Tan Heng Hong
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[From Left to Right] Mr Ahmad Rizal Che Wan, Associate Finance & Operations Director of Novo Nordisk, Dr Praful Chakkarwar, General Manager of Novo Nordisk together with Professor Dato’ Dr Hanafiah Harunarashid, Chief Medical Director of KPJ Healthcare and Mr Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare at the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony to commemorate the partnership between KPJ Healthcare and Novo Nordisk.

MoU to support structured, hospital-based metabolic and weight management care, with the first phase set to begin at 10 KPJ hospitals

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 April 2026 — KPJ Healthcare Berhad and Novo Nordisk Malaysia today formalised a strategic collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen structured, multi-disciplinary care in Malaysia, reflecting growing demand for a safer, more coordinated and medically supervised support for people living with obesity and related metabolic conditions. The collaboration will support the development of the KPJ Metabolic & Weight Management Programme, a hospital-based care model designed to provide patients with a structured, specialist-led, multidisciplinary care within a regulated healthcare setting.

The collaboration comes at a time when Malaysia continues to face a significant obesity and metabolic health burden. Health Ministry data from recent screenings involving 1.2 million adults nationwide found that 1:2 Malaysians are living with obesity or overweight, highlighting the scale and urgency of the issue. The ministry has also said that 15.6% of Malaysian adults, about one in six, are living with diabetes, with many unaware of their condition. Obesity is also estimated to cost the country more than RM64 billion annually through healthcare expenditure, productivity losses and premature mortality

Under the collaboration, both parties will work together to support a more comprehensive care pathway that combines specialist consultation, dietetic support, lifestyle guidance and clinically appropriate medical therapy. In the first phase, the programme is expected to be introduced at 10 KPJ hospitals, namely Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital, Damansara Specialist Hospital, Damansara 2 Specialist Hospital, Ipoh Specialist Hospital, Johor Specialist Hospital, KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital, KPJ Penang Specialist Hospital, KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital, Kuching Specialist Hospital and Tawakkal Specialist Hospital, with phased expansion planned for 12 months. Patients are expected to access the programme through hospital Health Screening Pathway & in-hospital referrals.

Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital, Damansara Specialist Hospital, Damansara 2 Specialist Hospital, Ipoh Specialist Hospital, Johor Specialist Hospital, KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital, KPJ Penang Specialist Hospital, KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital, Kuching Specialist Hospital dan Tawakkal Specialist Hospital

The programme will bring together Health Screening and Allied Health Professionals, including Endocrinology, Internal Medicine, Bariatric Surgery, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, Dietetics, and Pharmacy, under a more structured model of care. Patient care in this pathway includes initial assessment, body composition screening, metabolic risk review, personalised treatment planning, behavioural counselling, and follow-up scheduling, with a typical care duration of up to 6 months depending on individual clinical needs.

Chin Keat Chyuan, President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare Berhad, said, “Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that is closely linked to a wider spectrum of metabolic and non-communicable diseases, requiring coordinated, long-term management. Through this collaboration, we are strengthening a more structured and integrated care pathways across our hospitals, aligned with the KPJ Health System, which brings together clinical expertise, allied health support and evidence-based interventions within a consistent model of care. This reflects our ongoing commitment to deliver patient-centred care that is not only accessible, but also sustainable and outcome-driven.” In addition to patient care, the collaboration will also explore clinical education and responsible communication on obesity management, including the appropriate use of GLP-1-based therapies in regulated healthcare settings. This may include CME sessions and educational social media contents. The first phase is expected to involve 10 KPJ hospitals and 19 Consultant Endocrinologists.

 

Praful Chakkarwar, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Malaysia, said, “Obesity is a chronic disease that requires long-term, evidence-based management. As awareness grows in Malaysia, it is increasingly important that patients are supported through medically supervised care pathways with the right clinical expertise and follow-up. Through this collaboration, we hope to contribute to holistic care for people living with obesity where there are often multiple overlapping health conditions and believe KPJ Healthcare’s aim for holistic care for Malaysians, makes them a meaningful partner in this effort.”

The collaboration also aims to support broader awareness of obesity as a treatable chronic disease among patients, employers and the wider public. In recent years, Malaysian clinicians and health experts have increasingly emphasised that obesity should be managed through long-term, comprehensive care rather than short-term or fragmented interventions alone. By combining clinical expertise, structured support and responsible education, KPJ Healthcare and Novo Nordisk Malaysia hope to help advance obesity care in a way that is sustainable, evidence-based and meaningful for Malaysia.

Celebrate Beautiful MOMents at NEX: Visit an atelier with interactive workshops, snag exclusive Mother’s Day rewards, and more

By
Tan Heng Hong
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NEX invites families to come together to celebrate Beautiful MOMents with a special line-up of events in celebration of Mother’s Day!

Running from 17 April to 17 May 2026, families can look forward to exclusive shopping rewards, hands-on workshops in an aesthetic atelier on selected weekends, and a stylish photo spot — all designed to celebrate mums, and create opportunities for families to form cherished memories together.

Hands-on bonding at the MOM-ories Atelier (1 – 3 May, 9 – 10 May, 12pm – 8pm)

Running from 12pm to 8pm on selected weekends, the MOM-ories Atelier will present a series of fun and creative workshops designed to bring families and loved ones together.

From 1 to 3 May, shoppers can craft their own personalised tea blends, while on 9 and 10 May, they can create their own personalised scents at the DIY Perfume Bar. Across both weekends, visitors can also create their own dried flower basket arrangements — a thoughtful keepsake for mum.

To participate*, NEXrewards members simply need to spend a minimum of $30 in a single transaction at selected participating stores and scan their member QR code to redeem a MOM-ories Atelier eCoupon, which admits two participants. Each participant is entitled to one tea blend or perfume experience, and one flower basket experience.

*Redemptions are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 10.30am, with only 15 redemptions available per session. The last queue ticket will be issued at 6.30pm, unless otherwise stated.

You may refer to the table below for the schedule of the workshops:

*Redemption must be made in person on the same day of spending, limited to one redemption per NEXrewards member per day.

*MOM-ories Atelier eCoupons are only valid on the same day of redemption.
Snap and Win with the #MOMentsatNEX Photo Contest

Adding to the Mother’s Day festivities, NEX will also be running the #MOMentsatNEX Photo Contest from 1 to 10 May, giving shoppers another reason to celebrate and capture meaningful moments with mum.

Located at Level 3 near Yue Hwa, the special Mother’s Day photo backdrop will serve as a photo-worthy spot for shoppers to snap a memorable moment.

To participate, visitors can either join via Facebook by following @NEX.sg and commenting with their photo under the official #MOMentsatNEX Photo Contest post by 10 May, or via Instagram by following @nex.singapore, posting their photo on their own Feed or Story, and tagging @nex.singapore and the hashtag #MOMentsatNEX by 10 May.

Participants are required to be NEXrewards members, with non-members able to sign up for free via the NEXrewards mobile app.

Six winners will each walk away with a Zhong Yan Tang hamper worth over $350, which comes packed with nourishing wellness items, including bird’s nest, a ginseng bird’s nest drink, abalone, and a specially formulated tonic for women. Results will be announced on 20 May via the respective comment sections of the #MOMentsatNEX Photo Contest posts. 

Bloom into Rewards

The Mother’s Day treats don’t stop there! Spend a minimum of $100* and scan your NEXrewards member QR at selected participating stores^ to receive a $5 eNEXvoucher for your next shopping trip.

These eNEXvouchers will be released weekly on 17 April, 24 April, 1 May, and 8 May, and will be auto-credited into members’ eWallets upon successful redemption.

*Maximum of three combined same-day transactions. Each transaction must be $20 or more.
*Redemptions are limited to one per NEXrewards member each week, capped at the first 1,000 redemptions weekly, while stocks last.
*Excludes transactions from supermarkets, beauty, hair and wellness services, as well as education and enrichment stores.

Kallang Wave Mall Transformation to Bring Engaging Experiential Concepts to Life

By
Tan Heng Hong
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OCBC Square will be refreshed with an exciting tenant lineup and a welcoming plaza for community events
  • Curated mix of performance, wellness and community-led experiences to enhance active living at The Kallang
  • One of Southeast Asia’s tallest indoor climb wall, a rooftop padel ecosystem and experiential retail offerings among new highlights

Singapore, 16 April 2026 – Kallang Wave Mall is embarking on an extensive asset enhancement initiative (AEI) to transform it into an experiential sport and lifestyle retail destination at The Kallang. The AEI will include inviting new community spaces, refreshed façades, upgraded alfresco dining areas along the Stadium Park Connector, and a new 24-hour through-block link corridor for greater connectivity within the precinct. Shoppers can also look forward to sport and lifestyle concepts that reflect the lively spirit of The Kallang.

The mall, which is an integral part of The Kallang and managed by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), will continue to operate throughout the phased AEI which commences from May 2026, with completion targeted for 2028.

Mr Quek Swee Kuan, Chief Executive Officer, The Kallang Group, said: “The transformation of Kallang Wave Mall represents a leap forward in our vision for The Kallang to be Singapore’s epicentre of excitement and the destination of choice for sport, entertainment, lifestyle and community events in Asia Pacific. This asset enhancement extends beyond infrastructural upgrading. We are shaping the way people experience sport, entertainment, lifestyle and community as one seamless, integrated journey. By building open, inclusive and dynamic spaces that invite connection and discovery, we’re creating a vibrant destination with a renewed energy and sense of place. This is the spirit of The Kallang; a place that inspires everyone who comes here to connect, celebrate and truly Feel Alive.”

Mr Ervin Yeo, Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Management, CLI, said: “We are reimagining Kallang Wave Mall as a top-of-mind destination that energises, inspires and connects people. Drawing on CLI’s deep expertise in commercial management and experiential placemaking across our retail and workspace properties, we are curating a mix of sports, lifestyle, dining and community-led experiences that brings The Kallang’s ‘Feel Alive’ spirit to life. Kallang Wave Mall comprises both a box component and outdoor waterfront commercial spaces. The rejuvenated mall will be more than a mall; it will be a destination where locals and visitors will want to visit to connect with The Kallang’s energy.”

Operated by Climb Central, the new climbing facility will feature bouldering walls and one of the tallest climb walls in Southeast Asia. New and experienced climbers are welcomed

Adrenaline meets energy in reimagined spaces

An iconic feature since Kallang Wave Mall opened in 2014, the climb wall will be reimagined to further strengthen the mall’s appeal as a must-visit destination for climbing enthusiasts. Standing at 21-metres tall, the new wall with elements of real rock walls will be one of Southeast Asia’s tallest indoor climbing walls. Its apex will rise to approximately 10 metres above the mall’s roofline, rewarding adventurous climbers who reach the summit with picturesque, expansive views of The Kallang and the Kallang Basin. Operated by Climb Central, the new facility will also introduce bouldering walls, completing a comprehensive range of climbing offerings for both new and experienced climbers.

On the rooftop of the mall, a new padel ecosystem will be created, featuring six sheltered competition-ready courts for both casual and competitive play. Additionally, a new multi-sensory playscape will replace the existing water playground. The enhanced area will feature an engaging water play experience with larger-than-life installations and a kinetic dry play zone. Together, these enhancements will create a distinctive, dynamic space for children and their families.

To further support active lifestyles, an end-of-trip facility will be introduced to cater to cyclists and users of the Stadium Park Connector and Kallang Basin. Equipped with bike parking, bag storage, and shower facilities, the space will allow visitors to conveniently pause or conclude their exercise route at Kallang Wave Mall.

Experiential retail centred on community-building

As a destination mall, Kallang Wave Mall will bring experiential retail to life with a refreshed lineup.

Visitors arriving from Stadium MRT will be welcomed by revitalised shopfront facades along OCBC Square, including an LED screen capable of projecting 3D anamorphic displays. Within the mall, curated tenant offerings with a focus on community engagement will complete the refreshed experience.

New to the mall will be homegrown lifestyle and wellness company, ReFormd Group. They will debut a 360-degree high impact and science-backed fitness, wellness and recovery concept at the mall. Catering to diverse needs and lifestyles of modern active users, the concept will include a full fledge gym with personal training services, a recovery centre with cold plunges and ice baths, and a retail section.

Runners at The Kallang can look forward to the New Balance Run Hub, a community flagship store envisioned as a focal point for Singapore’s running community. Beyond retail, the Run Hub will offer runner-centric amenities, regular training sessions with experts and run specialists, and a calendar of running-related events. These initiatives are designed to bring together seasoned athletes and casual runners through regular interactions and shared experiences.

A performance-led flagship retail concept by Key Power Sports featuring XTEP and familiar favourites 2XU and Speedo will add to the mall’s sport offerings. Designed as more than just a retail space, these concepts integrate shopping with community-driven programming such as regular training sessions and sports clinics focused on improving performance.

With its open spaces and proximity to park connectors, Kallang Wave Mall is further strengthening its appeal to pet owners. Mutts & Mittens will establish a purpose-built, all-in-one pet community hub along the park connector. The concept will include a pet pool, boarding and training facilities, grooming services, a bakery and a retail section. Leveraging on its location, Mutts and Mittens looks to organise weekend programmes such as dog sports and training classes, community pet walks and competitions to bring the community together.

Enhanced alfresco dining experience by the park connector

Elevating everyday experiences

The transformation of Kallang Wave Mall will extend beyond sports, fitness and wellness. Curated gastronomic dining concepts and thematic alfresco dining settings by the waterfront will form part of the mall’s expanded offerings. Patrons can look forward to a variety of dining options, from cafes and family-friendly restaurants to unique bistro-pub concepts for socialising after work or a workout.

New experiential retail offerings centred on sports, lifestyle and community-led experiences will be introduced

Facility closures and mall tenant changes during the enhancement period

A few facilities around the precinct will be temporarily closed or relocated to facilitate the phased AEI. These changes are part of the roadmap to safely and efficiently upgrade the mall while reducing impact on visitors.

  • Splash-N-Surf is closed for renovation works to make way for a new rooftop wet and dry playscape. The new playscape is expected to reopen in 1Q 2027.
  • Singapore Sports Museum is closed and will reopen in 3Q 2027 as a refreshed, experience-led attraction bringing Singapore’s sporting stories to life.

The mall will continue to operate throughout the phased AEI and visitors can refer to www.thekallang.com.sg/shop-dine/enhancement-works-kallang-wave-mall for the latest information on tenants and scheduled works.

 

New Moon launches Burn & Block Fat Essence: simplifying daily wellness

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Image credit: New Moon Singapore

New Moon has announced the launch of Burn & Block Fat Essence, a product designed to simplify wellness routines for modern, busy lifestyles. Positioned as an easy daily ritual, the supplement requires only one sachet per day, taken 30 minutes before a meal, making it a practical choice for consumers seeking convenience without compromising on health.

Burn & Block Fat Essence is formulated to support three key areas of wellness:

  • Fat metabolism and healthy body composition
  • Relief from water‑induced puffiness
  • Promotion of bowel regularity

New Moon’s Burn & Block Fat Essence is specially formulated to support healthy fat metabolism and inner metabolic balance—helping the body burn more fat efficiently from within.

Each sachet (30 ml) contains:

  • 1,000 mg Inulin
  • 500 mg Prickly Pear Extract
  • 300 mg Wild Mango Seed Extract
  • 70 mg Cassia Seed Extract
  • 15 mg Green Tea Extract
  • 70 mcg Chromium (from 1 mg of Niacin‑Bound Chromium Complex)

Other ingredients include water, passion fruit juice, orange juice concentrate, passion fruit flavour, maltitol, sodium citrate, xanthan gum and sucralose.

Plantae pops into prebiotic soda innovation

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Image credit: Plantae

Plantae, a leading plant‑based food start‑up in Thailand, has introduced Prebo Pop, promoted as a ‘new generation of soda with playful wellness.’ This launch marks Plantae’s entry into the prebiotic soda segment, offering a drink that makes wellness approachable and enjoyable through taste.

Prebo Pop contains 0% sugar, delivers 7g of fibre per can to support digestive health, and includes apple cider vinegar for added functional benefits. At the core of the formulation is Cider Biome™ Technology, developed in Plantae Lab, which blends prebiotic fibre with apple cider vinegar to create a refreshing beverage that combines flavour with wellness.

The prebiotic soda is available at Tops Supermarket and FoodHall in two refreshing flavors: Classic Muscat and Cream Cloud.

Hennessy MyWay 2026: Road to Cognac Begins

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Hennessy’s Global Bartending Challenge Returns, Inviting Malaysia’s Finest to Compete on the World Stage

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, April 2026 – Hennessy celebrates the return of Hennessy MyWay 2026, the brand’s premier global bartending competition. Registrations are now open for this annual challenge, which invites bartenders from all over the world to redefine cocktail artistry by blending sustainable practices with expressive, ritual-inspired serves. National champions will have the chance to represent their country at the Global Finals, held this year in Cognac, France – the birthplace of Hennessy.

Hennessy MyWay 2025 Malaysian Champion and Hennessy MyWay 2026 Mentor, Oh Chong Hau shares his insights on the competition

The Malaysian chapter officially launched at Bar None, the latest venture from Hennessy MyWay alumni Raz Ng and Arsenio “Ash” Mariano. Bringing together the local mixology community, the event offered attendees an official virtual introduction from Hennessy Brand Education Director, Julien Pepin-Lehalleur, and exclusive insights from Hennessy MyWay 2025 Malaysian Champion and Hennessy MyWay 2026 mentor, Oh Chong Hau.

During his sharing session, Chong Hau reflected on his experience last year, emphasising Hennessy as a brand that truly cares about the craft and artistry of bartenders. “Throughout the competition, you receive constructive feedback and guidance, which really helps you to improve. The scoring focuses on your overall skills as a bartender, not just the final drink, which shows that the brand and the judges really pay attention to the effort you put in. This competition is open to everyone, so I encourage you to join regardless of your level of experience — as long as you’re willing to think outside the box and put in the practice.”

Arsenio Ash mixing cocktails for the crowd

During the launch, Arsenio Ash was also revealed as a returning mentor, bringing his seasoned expertise back to the 2026 programme. He highlighted the importance of mentorship throughout the competition, highlighting how Hennessy MyWay provides rare access to industry guidance and support, helping bartenders refine their craft and advance their career.

Senior Brand Manager of Hennessy Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines at Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia, Edmund Wong, walks the crowd through the competition process and timeline

Elevating this year’s edition, the competition will spotlight three National Champions across Malaysia, Indonesia and Philippines or Vietnam. In addition to official guidance from the Maison, finalists will gain special access to mentorship and knowledge-sharing sessions led by a collective of respected Southeast Asian industry veterans and Hennessy MyWay Alumni.

Where Creativity Meets Conscious Craft

A core aspect throughout the competition, Hennessy MyWay challenges bartenders to push creative boundaries while honouring the environment. From locally sourced ingredients to eco-conscious techniques and reimagined service rituals, participants are encouraged to craft cocktails that reflect a more sustainable approach and tell a story with every serve.

Each year, bartenders continue to raise the bar, bringing fresh perspectives, technical skill, and personal flair to the challenge. More than just the final pour, Hennessy MyWay seeks talents who embrace storytelling, bring people together, and redefine modern cocktails through ritual, sustainability, and originality.

Hennessy MyWay is more than a competition — it reflects Hennessy’s genuine care and enduring commitment to the mixology community. By bringing bartenders together across Southeast Asia and beyond, the platform fosters connection, creativity, and collaboration, empowering the craft to grow with every edition.

Competition Timeline

The journey to the global stage is divided into three phases, with each phase requiring a new cocktail recipe:

1. Phase One (Now – 30 April 2026): Registrations are open for video submissions.
2. Phase Two (June – July 2026): Masterclasses and Guestshifts held by Hennessy MyWay Southeast Asia mentors across Malaysia, Philippines and Vietnam.
3. Phase Three (August 2026): Semi-Finals and Regional Finals in Malaysia.
4. Phase Four (October 2026): Global Finals in Cognac, France.

How to Enter

1. Register via the official Hennessy MyWay submission platform.
2. Post a one-minute cocktail video showcasing the complexity and versatility of Hennessy V.S.O.P. on a public social media account (Instagram preferred) using the hashtag #HennessyMyWay.
3. Submit the video link and recipe details (including sustainability and ritual serve elements) via the submission platform by April 30, 2026 (12 AM local time).

Note: Video production quality is not scored; video must clearly show the ritual serve and final appearance.

Judging Criteria: Sustainability is Key

Sustainability is a key pillar of Hennessy MyWay and remains a primary judging factor. Effective sustainable techniques focus on minimising waste, reimagining overlooked ingredients, and making purposeful use of what is readily available. Contestants are encouraged to keep the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle in mind when conceptualising their creations.

Overall criteria

● Sustainability (35 points)
● Drinkability (25 points)
● Ritual Serve (25 points)
● Product Knowledge (10 points)
● Appearance (5 points)

A Platform for the Future of Bartending

More than just a competition, Hennessy MyWay continues to champion the next generation of bartenders shaping the future of cocktail culture through creativity, sustainability, and storytelling.

For more information and full competition terms, please visit the official Hennessy MyWay website.

Heineken® Unveils First Sip House, an Afterwork Pop-Up Unlocking Refreshing Discoveries

By
Tan Heng Hong
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From 7 to 16 May 2026, step into a highly anticipated afterwork destination with three floors of beertails, bites, vibes, and one rule: the first sip can’t wait.

Singapore, 13 April 2026 – After surprising CBD office workers by bringing the first sip forward with a surprise elevator stunt, Heineken® is now taking it to the next level with the unveiling of Heineken®’s First Sip House.

Running from 7 to 16 May 2026 at 36 Keong Saik Road, the must-visit pop-up afterwork destination invites guests to step straight into the night, where the first sip unlocks a series of refreshing discoveries. With free entry, guests can expect fresher, bigger afterwork experience across three floors of beertails, bites and vibes, designed to get people prioritising their first beer over their last work e-mail, all centred around the refreshment of Heineken®’s Pure Malt, Premium Quality.

FIRST SIP BAR — PURE MALT IN EVERY SIP. PURE MALT IN EVERY BITE.

At the heart of Heineken®’s First Sip House is the First Sip Bar, where award-winning mixologist June Baek and culinary maverick Justin Hammond return for a second consecutive year with an all-new menu of four innovative Pure Malt bar bite and beertail pairings that spotlight how Heineken®’s Pure Malt elevates every sip and bite.

The menu is built on the playful idea that the first sip cannot wait, where even the chefs found themselves stepping away mid-prep for a Heineken® afterwork, leaving each dish in an artfully unfinished state for you to complete. From the final pour to the last garnish, guests are invited to take over and finish each creation, discovering the layers of scents, textures and flavours that come together in every pairing.

The Four Pairings

Punched Out
  • Punched Out – Pure Malt delivers a perfectly balanced taste. Tangy Tuna Tartare with Pure Malt powder on warm crostini, paired with a Soju Bomb of Heineken Original and Omija berry.
  • The Recharge – Pure Malt, premium quality ingredients.Rich, earthy Mushroom Parfait with a Pure Malt balsamic caramel you finish yourself, paired with a Heineken Silver Spritz of grapefruit, ginger and thyme.
  • The Discovery – Pure Malt adds richness, depth, and complexity to everything it touches. Malted Peanut Butter Soba with cured egg yolk and Shichi-mi tōgarashi, paired with a layered Malt Sour of Heineken Silver and silky malt foam.
  • The Payoff – Pure Malt takes craftsmanship, and craftsmanship takes time. 48-hour slow-cooked Beef Short Rib Tacos with a 3-day malted mole, paired with a Heineken Michelada, you may finish your way – Tabasco, wasabi, or sambal.
The Discovery

REFRESHING EXPERIENCES THAT KEEP THE NIGHT GOING

The night doesn’t stop at the bar. Get more out of Afterwork as Heineken®’s First Sip House brings together a series of curated experiences, each offering a different way to refresh your out-of-office hours.

STAR TAP — The first cheers-to-currency exchange

At First Sip House, every connection counts. Tap your bracelet with someone new to spark interactions, unlock colour changes, exclusive rewards and score a place on the live Afterwork Stars leaderboard. The more you tap, the more refreshing it gets. Because the best first sips are always shared with someone new.

ART JAM — Your Afterwork. Your Manifesto.

For those who crave a creative outlet, Art Jam invites you to put the workday aside and make something entirely your own. Start with a graffiti-painted base, and you take it from there – cutting, layering, printing, owning it. No rules. No pressure. Just a Heineken and your Afterwork energy.

POURFECTION LOUNGE — The craft of the perfect pour

This isn’t just a pouring lesson, it’s also your exclusive first look at Heineken’s all-new StarMark Glass before anyone else gets their hands on it. Guided by our expert Draught Masters, master the 5-step perfect pour and discover how every step unlocks the full flavour of Pure Malt Premium Quality Heineken.

GET ACCESS TO HEINEKEN®’S FIRST SIP HOUSE – BOOK NOW VIA KLOOK

Clock out from work, and into Heineken®’s First Sip House. General Admission is FREE for members of the public above the age of 18, and includes a refreshing pint of Heineken (Original, Silver, or 0.0).

Guests can also elevate their full experience with a Pure Malt Beertail & Bites Ticket which includes a Beertail & Bar Bite Pairing Set and one free Heineken® Beer:

  • Early bird (till 6 May): $18
  • Regular Price (7 – 16 May): $21

All tickets are available on Klook. General Admission tickets must also be booked in advance, while slots last.

Tropicana Twister Builds Homes That Could Change Lives for Generations

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Gandakan Kebaikan transforms nationwide kindness into real homes, delivering meaningful and lasting impact.

KUALA LUMPUR, 16 APRIL 2026 – Tropicana Twister’s ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ campaign has reached a defining milestone with the completion and handover of homes to families in need, marking a tangible outcome of a nationwide movement built on everyday acts of kindness. 

Developed in partnership with EPIC Homes, the initiative contributes towards the building of up to 100 homes for underserved communities, including Orang Asli families across Malaysia. What began during Ramadan as a simple call to do good has since translated into safe, liveable spaces that provide families with protection, stability and a chance to move forward. 

“Gandakan Kebaikan reflects our belief that meaningful change happens when communities come together with a shared purpose,” said Aditya Sheoran, PepsiCo Franchise Senior Director. “Through this initiative, we’re building homes and helping to create stronger foundations for families to thrive, today and for the future.”

Jennifer Lee, Head of Marketing, PepsiCo Malaysia Beverages, shared, “This is where intention becomes impact. Tropicana Twister’s Gandakan Kebaikan campaign started as individual acts of kindness, and now, the result is visible, that Malaysians are and will continue to show up for one another.” 

“Families living in unsafe homes live in constant worry, especially during heavy rain. An EPIC Home gives them a place where they can feel secure. It goes beyond being just a shelter – a safe home gives peace of mind, stability, and the hope for a better future.” said Nadhira Halim, (Asst. Manager, Fundraising & Partnership, EPIC Homes).

More than just physical structures, these homes create a sense of security and dignity, while giving families a stable environment to rebuild their lives. Built with the support of volunteers and local communities, each home reflects a collective effort that goes far beyond a single campaign.

While ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ was rooted in the spirit of Ramadan, its impact continues to extend far beyond the festive season. By focusing on long-term community needs, Tropicana Twister reinforces its commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change. 

“As a brand, we believe in the power of collective goodness. This project is about turning that belief into action and bringing people together to create lasting impact,” added Jennifer. “Just like every beam and plank forms a home, each of you is a vital piece in building this journey.”

With the completion of these homes, ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ continues to build on its mission of supporting underserved communities across Malaysia, proving that collective goodwill can create an impact that lasts beyond a moment. 

For more information, visit Tropicana Twister’s Facebook page @MYTropicana and watch here on YouTube to see the impact unfold.

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