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

By
Tan Heng Hong
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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!

By
Tan Heng Hong
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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

By
Tan Heng Hong
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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

By
Tan Heng Hong
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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

By
Tan Heng Hong
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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

By
Tan Heng Hong
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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.

Malaysia Airports’ Iconic Shopping Campaign Brings Back Luxury Car, plus Dream Holidays

By
Tan Heng Hong
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The highly anticipated launch of Licence to Win featured appearances by local celebrities and influencers – (From L to R) Jane Chuck; Eyka Farhana; Daiyan Trisha; Shalma Aina; Siti Saleha; Zulhikam Ahmad, General Manager, Commercial Business; Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, Hani Ezra Hussin, Senior General Manager, Commercial Services; Mr. Hendry Saputra, Vice President of Partnership; Traveloka; Zeid Abdul Razak, Chief Financial Officer of Malaysia Airports; Mr. Mathialagan Maniam, Senior Manager Merchandising of MA Niaga; Hisyam Hamid; Amelia Henderson; Scha Alyahya; Awal Ashaari

Malaysia Airports’ Iconic Shopping Campaign Brings Back Luxury Car, plus Dream Holidays

9 July 2025, SEPANG – Malaysia Airports is empowering travellers to own their dream journey with the return of its flagship shopping campaign, Licence to Win. Running from 21 July to 31 December 2025, this year’s edition, “Own the Dream” turns every boarding pass into a golden ticket to win the ultimate grand prize, a striking carmine red Porsche 911 Carrera. This follows the campaign’s past success featuring luxury supercars, including the McLaren 570S Coupé in 2019.

A Carmine Red Porsche 911 Carrera was unveiled as the Grand Prize of Licence To Win 2025

In a strategic partnership with Eraman, Malaysia’s leading duty-free retailer, and Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s top travel platform, Licence to Win redefines the airport experience by seamlessly blending premium retail with the thrill of extraordinary rewards.

The campaign was launched at an exclusive event at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), attended by local celebrities and influencers, including Awal Ashaari, Scha Alyahya, Daiyan Trisha, Amelia Henderson, and Uyaina Arshad. Their presence highlighted the campaign’s appeal, sparking excitement among travellers and shoppers.

Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports and Hani Ezra Hussin, Senior General Manager, Commercial Services for Malaysia Airports

According to the Senior General Manager for Commercial Services of Malaysia Airports, Hani Ezra Hussin, “Our goal is to create experiences that go beyond routine. We are making this campaign more engaging, more inclusive, and more rewarding for every traveller, across every airport. Our Commercial Reset strategy is about more than just revitalising KLIA; it’s about raising the bar across our entire network. That is why Licence to Win is a cornerstone of our efforts to connect with travellers and shoppers, aligning perfectly with our reset strategy. It reflects how we’re reshaping the airport retail experience, making every transaction a touchpoint, and every moment an opportunity to connect.”

In addition to the grand prize, shoppers at other international airports under the Malaysia Airports’ network can also stand a chance to win a sleek BMW R1300GS motorbike, adding another layer of aspiration to a journey where every purchase moves passengers closer to owning the dream.

A campaign for all shoppers

This year’s Licence to Win is more inclusive than ever, ensuring every traveller has a chance to win remarkable prizes. The campaign features a lower entry threshold, a larger prize pool, and new partner rewards tailored to diverse traveller preferences.

The airports’ F&B segment, which has seen an impressive 58% sales growth compared to 2019, is the fastest-growing category across Malaysia Airports. To reflect this, the minimum spend for campaign entry is now just RM100, making it easier for passengers to shop, dine, and pursue their dreams. With over 500 retail and dining outlets across Malaysia’s international airports (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu), travellers can shop and dine to their heart’s content.

Eraman’s recent efforts of bringing in new stores such as Charlotte Tilbury, Xerjoff, Penhaligon’s, and refurbished outlets holds a curated selection of duty-free products, from the latest fashion to premium fragrances to indulgent chocolates and fine liquor, ensuring every purchase brings travellers closer to their dreams.

Strategic partners for this year’s LTW edition include Eraman, Malaysia’s leading duty-free retailer, and Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s top travel platform

Meanwhile, Traveloka enhances the experience with exclusive travel vouchers covering flights, hotels, and travel activities, enabling passengers to enjoy dream holidays in Switzerland, Australia and Japan. With over 140 million app downloads and more than 40 million monthly active users, Traveloka stands as one of the most popular travel apps in the region, offering an integrated range of products including flights, hotels, and travel activities.

For more information, visit www.malaysiaairports.com.my or follow @shopmyairports on Instagram and Facebook.

Serumpun Sarawak Ignites A Cultural Gastronomy Journey From Borneo To The World

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Launching gimmick of Serumpun Sarawak by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, together with other esteemed guests

Unveiling Global Showcases in Osaka (August 2025) and Mulu (October 2025)

PETALING JAYA, 10 July 2025 – Sarawak is stepping boldly onto the global culinary stage with the launch of Serumpun Sarawak, a landmark journey that redefines indigenous heritage, food traditions, and cultural creativity as powerful tools for global influence and sustainable economic growth. Building momentum toward its international debut, Serumpun Sarawak is set to headline two major showcases: Osaka, Japan and Mulu, Sarawak. These global stages will feature curated tasting experiences, storytelling installations, and collaborative performances that present Sarawak’s cultural identity in a vibrant, modern context.

From left: Rayernt Khor (Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Collective), Chef James Won, Prof. Dr. Gerard Bodeker, YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak), YB Dato Dennis Ngau (Chairman of the Sarawak Tourism Board), Datu Sherrina Binti Hussaini (Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak), and Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor (CEO of the Sarawak Tourism Board) commemorating the launch of Serumpun Sarawak with a group photo at Le MĂ©ridien, Kuala Lumpur.

Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) and the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), Serumpun Sarawak marks a bold new chapter for the state’s tourism and cultural economy. The initiative is led by world-renowned chef and indigenous gastronomy advocate, Chef James Won, in collaboration with Atlas Collective. More than a gastronomic experience, Serumpun Sarawak is a global invitation to engage with Sarawak as a living ecosystem of biodiversity, creativity, and ancestral knowledge, where indigenous wisdom meets contemporary innovation, and where food becomes a vessel for storytelling, identity, and connection.

Chef Ramos Jalang Anak Nyawa officially unveiled as the selected apprentice under the Serumpun Apprentice Programme.

“When Kuching earned its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, it wasn’t
simply a feather in our cap, it was a call to action. A signal to the world that Sarawak’s culinary roots run deep — and our ambitions reach far,” said YB Dato’ Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.

“Serumpun Sarawak is our answer to that call. It is where ancestral knowledge meets cutting-edge creativity. Where native ingredients become narrative. Where stories from the lands are translated into unforgettable multisensory experiences.’”

Chef Laura Jane Bara of the Culinary Heritage & Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS) presenting an ethnic cooking showcase, witnessed by esteemed guests at the Serumpun Sarawak launch.

The journey’s first confirmed activation will take place from 5 to 8 August 2025 in Osaka, Japan, as part of an exclusive cultural gastronomy showcase in conjunction with the World Expo 2025. Hosted at Seaside Studio Caso, this immersive event will introduce Japanese and global audiences to the depth and diversity of Sarawak’s indigenous cuisines, ingredients, and creative expressions. Through curated dining experiences, visual storytelling, and cultural showcases, Osaka will offer a window into Sarawak’s soul, a vibrant confluence of land, people, and culinary heritage.

Chef Laura Ethnic Cooking Showcase

Following its international debut, Serumpun Sarawak will return to its roots with a powerful community-based activation deep in Sarawak’s own natural crown jewel, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mulu National Park. In October 2025, the journey will host a site-specific experience within the park itself, blending indigenous culinary traditions, ecological appreciation, and cultural storytelling in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring environments. The Mulu activation reflects Serumpun Sarawak’s commitment to ensuring that global recognition is always grounded in respect for local communities, biodiversity, and indigenous knowledge systems.

Earthlings Coffee: Liberica Showcase

 

Collaboration sits at the heart of Serumpun Sarawak, with leading Sarawakian organisations such as Earthlings Coffee Workshop, Tanoti Crafts, The Tuyang Initiative, and the Culinary Heritage & Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS) working together to champion indigenous ingredients, craftsmanship, and cultural preservation. Their shared vision ensures that the journey remains rooted in authenticity, empowering local communities while amplifying Sarawak’s position as a world-class destination for cultural and culinary exploration.

Earthlings Coffee

Guests at today’s press conference were offered an early taste of what lies ahead, with a
captivating ethnic cooking showcase and an exclusive preview of The Serumpun Story, a short film encapsulating the essence of the journey. A curated coffee experience by Earthlings Coffee Workshop also highlighted Sarawak’s emerging status as a terroir for exceptional coffee cultivation, blending tradition, sustainability, and global potential.

Serumpun Sarawak represents the next evolution of Sarawak’s tourism and cultural landscape, where heritage is not frozen in time but continually reimagined, shared, and celebrated. It is an invitation to the world to experience Sarawak not just through its landscapes but through its flavours, its stories, and its people. As the journey prepares to take Sarawak’s cultural gastronomy to Mulu, Osaka, and beyond, one message rings clear: Sarawak is ready to lead, to inspire, and to redefine how the world experiences Borneo.

Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves Introduces New Service Centre for PEUGEOT

By
Tan Heng Hong
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[L-R] Chang Voon Fue, Head of Sales, Stellantis Malaysia; Christian Chen, Head of Aftersales, Stellantis ASEAN; Isaac Yeo, Managing Director, Stellantis ASEAN; Adrian Short, CEO, Cycle & Carriage Malaysia; James Zhang, CFO, Cycle & Carriage Malaysia and Khoo Yi Kai, General Manager Stellantis Retail Operations, Cycle & Carriage Malaysia officiating the launch of the PEUGEOT service centre at Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves.

The brand now offers service facilities and customer experience for Stellantis Malaysia customers

Batu Caves, 11 July 2025 – Cycle & Carriage announces the launch of its PEUGEOT service centre at Batu Caves, cementing its partnership with Stellantis Malaysia. This strategic expansion underscores Cycle & Carriage’s continued commitment to providing a complete range of services for customers of brands under Stellantis Malaysia. The new state-of-the-art service centre at Batu Caves is designed to provide exceptional aftersales support, with an emphasis on service excellence, maintenance, and vehicle repairs.

The newly introduced centre now boasts a total of 8,005 square feet, consisting of five service and repair work bays, and five body and paint work bays, equipped to provide top-quality service dedicated for all Stellantis brand vehicles. The centre is designed to handle everything from minor touch-ups to full-body repairs and paint jobs, ensuring a complete suite of aftersales services.

Beyond the workshop, Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves features a stylish and cosy customer lounge, where customers can relax while their vehicles are being serviced. The lounge provides a comfortable space with refreshments, seating, and Wi-Fi, offering a relaxing experience during their routine service visit.

“We are excited to expand Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves into a dedicated service centre that will not only serve our growing customer base but also provide expert aftersales services for Stellantis brand vehicles. With our focus on service excellence and customer care, we aim to deliver unparalleled service experiences for all owners of the Stellantis brands starting with PEUGEOT. This expansion reinforces our commitment to providing comprehensive support across the entire ownership journey,” said Adrian Short, CEO of Cycle & Carriage.

“The expansion of our network represents a critical pillar in Stellantis Malaysia’s long-term growth strategy, reinforcing our commitment to delivering a superior customer experience across every stage of ownership. This new facility, in collaboration with our trusted partner Cycle & Carriage, is a testament to our shared ambition to set new benchmarks in aftersales excellence and our joint dedication to delivering a seamless ownership experience — building trust that goes the distance,” said Isaac Yeo, Managing Director of Stellantis ASEAN.

To celebrate the opening of the new service centre, all service appointments made in July at Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves will receive complimentary battery health check, air conditioning check, DiagBox diagnostics check, 30-point vehicle checkup, car wash and a welcome gift.

In conjunction with the launch of Batu Caves, Cycle & Carriage will be having a PEUGEOT Demo Car Sales with limited units of pre-owned PEUGEOT 3008 vehicles available from RM108,000, with additional private rebates at Cycle & Carriage Cheras and George Town showrooms. All vehicles come with low mileage, warranty until 2031, full service at authorised PEUGEOT service centres, and follow strict pre-delivery inspection (PDI) checks.

will serve as a premier destination for PEUGEOT customers seeking expert aftersales care and service. The branch is open from 8am to 5pm on weekdays, 8am to 12pm on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays. For more information regarding Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves, visit www.cyclecarriage.com.my or chat with Cycle & Carriage’s WhatsApp chatbot (+6012 – 6202042).

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MARRYBROWN BRINGS MALAYSIANS ON AN OISHII TRIP WITH THEIR NEW MENU!

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Experience a tangy kick with Marrybrown’s new sweet and savory Teriyaki Wasabi Flavour. MALAYSIA, 29 JUNE 2022 - Okyaku-sama konnichiwa! This year on Marrybrown’s Around...

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Baskbear Coffee introduces the RTD option

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Loob Holding Sdn Bhd's Baskbear Coffee, a virtual coffee brand inspired by the Malayan Sun Bear, has rolled out Baskbear To Go to improve consumer access...

Subway Malaysia Invites Malaysians to Go Spicy and #TambahPedas With Limited...

Danone alleged to have intimidated Le Minerale bottled water sellers

Carlsberg Introduces New Look for the Same Great Brew

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