MalaysianUpdates

Category: Food & Beverage (F&B)

  • “WXYZ ON TOUR” MENU MAKES ITS GRAND ENTRANCE AT ALOFT LANGKAWI PANTAI TENGAH

    Aloft by Marriott Langkawi Pantai Tengah has introduced a fresh and innovative concept to its vibrant social scene with the launch of the WXYZ On Tour beverage program. Inspired by the brand’s deep-rooted connection to music, the new menu takes guests on a flavour-filled journey across the Asia-Pacific region, blending creative mixology with cultural storytelling and live entertainment.

    Designed as more than just a collection of beverages, WXYZ On Tour transforms every drink into a destination. The concept celebrates the spirit of travel and discovery by drawing inspiration from iconic music influences and regional flavours from countries across the Aloft network. Through carefully crafted cocktails and mocktails, guests are invited to experience a sensory journey that reflects the diversity and creativity of the region.

    The menu’s standout offerings include signature cocktails such as Déjà Yu, Paw It Like It’s Hot, and Spice Up Your Life, each delivering distinctive flavours and personalities inspired by different musical eras and genres. These creations serve as the centrepiece of the experience, combining premium ingredients with imaginative presentation to create memorable moments for guests.

    Adding a local touch, the beverage program also highlights regional inspirations through drinks such as Kopi Me Softly, which pays homage to Malaysia’s rich coffee culture, and Calamansi Me Maybe, a tropical concoction inspired by Southeast Asian flavours. For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, the mocktail selection offers creative alternatives that maintain the playful musical theme while delivering refreshing flavours.

    The official launch event reflected the energetic spirit of the new program. WXYZ Bar came alive with live music performances, interactive activities, and immersive experiences that encouraged guests to embrace the festival atmosphere. Activities such as batik lucky cat painting and DIY music-themed tattoos added a creative touch, turning the evening into a celebration of music, art, and social connection.

    One of the most unique features introduced alongside the menu is the WXYZ On Tour Drink Passport. The initiative encourages guests to sample beverages inspired by different destinations throughout the Asia-Pacific region, collecting stamps as they progress through the menu. The concept transforms a night out into an engaging culinary adventure, rewarding curiosity and exploration.

    The launch was further enhanced by a special appearance from Bastien Michaud, Brand Ambassador for Pernod Ricard Malaysia. Drawing on his extensive international experience, Bastien introduced guests to innovative cocktail techniques and the stories behind some of the world’s most celebrated spirits, elevating the overall experience with a blend of expertise and entertainment.

    By combining music, travel, culture, and mixology, WXYZ On Tour embodies Aloft’s commitment to delivering experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality. As Langkawi continues to evolve as a leading lifestyle and tourism destination, the new beverage program offers visitors another reason to explore the island’s dynamic social scene while enjoying a taste of Asia-Pacific creativity in every glass.

  • Lotus’s Malaysia team secures the only Gold Award at the Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge 2026

    Lotus’s Malaysia team secures the only Gold Award at the Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge 2026

    Bangkok, Thailand, 4 June 2026 – Team Lotus’s Malaysia has made history on the international culinary stage after winning the Gold Award and being crowned Overall Team Champion at the Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge (TUCC) 2026, held in Bangkok in conjunction with THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026. This remarkable achievement was especially significant as it marked the team’s debut appearance in the prestigious competition.

    The event, held from 26 to 30 May 2026 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, brought together more than 400 chefs from across Asia and beyond, making it one of the most competitive culinary platforms in the region. Endorsed by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS), TUCC is widely recognised as a benchmark for culinary excellence, innovation, and sustainability, offering chefs a global stage to showcase their skills and creativity.

    Representing Malaysia were the winners of Lotus’s Malaysia Masak-Masak Ceria 2025 Professional Category: Chef Muhammad Syafiq Syahmi bin Saidon, Chef Leo Wong, and Chef Yuventhiran Pillai A/L Arumugam Pillai. Competing in the Asian Gourmet Challenge, the team impressed judges with a carefully curated menu that highlighted Malaysia’s rich multicultural culinary heritage through modern techniques and refined presentation.

    The winning Team Lotus’s Malaysia who were the winners from its Masak-Masak Ceria 2025 Professional Category, the chefs are:
     
    – Chef Muhammad Syafiq Syahmi bin Saidon (center)
    – Chef Leo Wong (right)
    – Chef Yuventhiran Pillai A/L Arumugam Pillai (left)

    Their menu featured a series of standout creations, including the Fiddle Fern Kerabu Salad Roll with Toasted Coconut Emulsion, Mackerel Otak Mousseline with Otak Sauce, Tom Yam Soup with Shrimp Mosaic, Lamb Patty Braised in Rogan Josh Sauce, Chicken Boxing with Green Masala Curry, and a dessert titled Leum Kleun Lava with Thai Tea Semi-Freddo and Green Thai Tea Foam. The dishes showcased a seamless blend of traditional flavours and contemporary culinary artistry.

    Team Lotus’s Malaysia stood out by securing the only Gold Award in the Team Category, while all other competing teams received Silver Awards. The team further strengthened its dominance by being named Overall Team Champion, awarded to the highest-scoring team across the category. This achievement is even more impressive given that it was their first-ever participation in TUCC.

    The success reflects the strong talent pipeline developed through Lotus’s Malaysia’s flagship culinary competition, Masak-Masak Ceria, which continues to nurture both aspiring and professional chefs. Having emerged as champions in the 2025 edition, the trio successfully translated their national success into international recognition, elevating Malaysia’s culinary reputation on the global stage.

    Dishes prepared by Team Lotus’s Malaysia that bagged them the Gold award home in the TUCC 2026.

    Lotus’s Malaysia CEO, Saksit Panurach, described the victory as a proud milestone for both the company and the Malaysian culinary industry. He highlighted that winning the sole Gold Award in the team category and being crowned Overall Team Champion at a WACS-endorsed competition demonstrates exceptional talent, dedication, and teamwork. He also noted that achieving such success in their debut appearance against over 400 international chefs makes the accomplishment even more extraordinary.

    Lotus’s Malaysia congratulated the chefs for proudly flying the Jalur Gemilang and bringing honour to the nation. The achievement further reinforces Malaysia’s position as a rising force in global gastronomy, driven by creativity, cultural diversity, and culinary excellence.

  • Bean Here! Melangkah ke KPTM Ipoh, Tawar Pengalaman Kafe untuk Warga Kampus

    Bean Here! Melangkah ke KPTM Ipoh, Tawar Pengalaman Kafe untuk Warga Kampus

    Jenama pilihan tempatan, Bean Here! Coffee & Pastries (Bean Here!), kini dibuka di Kolej Poly-Tech MARA (KPTM) Ipoh bagi menawarkan pengalaman kafe berkualiti kepada warga kampus serta komuniti sekitarnya.

    Pembukaan cawangan Bean Here! di KPTM ini mencerminkan usaha berterusan Silver Lifestyle Sdn Bhd (Silver Lifestyle), anak syarikat milik penuh Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak (PKNPk), dalam memperkukuh jenama tempatan yang semakin relevan dalam landskap pengguna semasa, khususnya dalam kalangan belia yang merupakan segmen utama perbelanjaan berasaskan gaya hidup.

    Sejak memulakan operasi pada tahun 2020, Silver Lifestyle telah mengamalkan pendekatan perniagaan yang dinamik dan adaptif terhadap keperluan pasaran, termasuk pembaharuan menu secara berkala serta penyesuaian format operasi mengikut lokasi dan profil pelanggan. Bermula di Perak Techno Trade Centre (PTTC), jenama ini menerima sambutan positif daripada komuniti setempat, sekali gus membina asas kukuh untuk perluasan operasi secara lebih tersusun.

    Kini, Bean Here! beroperasi melalui tiga model utama iaitu Kiosk Uber Concept, Café Swanky Bar dan Kiosk Petite, yang dibangunkan bagi memenuhi kepelbagaian keperluan pasaran. Kehadirannya di lokasi seperti PTTC, Hotel Casuarina@Meru, Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah dan kini di KPTM membuktikan keupayaan jenama ini menyesuaikan penawaran mengikut persekitaran, merangkumi komuniti bandar, sektor hospitaliti serta institusi pendidikan tinggi.

    Menurut Pengarah Silver Lifestyle, Encik Nur Ismail bin Mohammed, strategi pengukuhan dan peluasan jenama Bean Here! dirangka bagi meningkatkan kecekapan operasi serta menyokong pertumbuhan jangka panjang. Beliau berkata strategi ini memberi tumpuan kepada perlindungan pelaburan sedia ada, pelaburan strategik serta pengurusan kewangan yang lebih efisien di samping memanfaatkan potensi pasaran untuk pertumbuhan yang mampan.

    Seiring dengan pelaksanaan strategi tersebut, Bean Here! turut memperkenalkan pelbagai menu baharu seperti Chicken Tenders, Nachos, Black Forest Spanish Latte dan Cinnamon Latte sebagai sebahagian daripada penawaran yang lebih segar, pantas dan berpatutan bagi memenuhi citarasa golongan belia yang mengutamakan pengalaman santai dan berkualiti. Pengarah Silver Lifestyle Sdn Bhd yang juga bertanggungjawab dalam operasi dan pemasaran Bean Here!, Encik Harris bin Mohd Rodzi, berkata pihaknya turut menilai peluang peluasan strategik secara berfasa ke lokasi berpotensi tinggi seperti terminal KTM serta beberapa institusi pengajian tinggi di Ipoh termasuk UniKL.

    Sementara itu, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif KPTM, Tuan Haji Radzuan bin Razali, berkata pembukaan Bean Here! di KPTM Ipoh bukan sekadar menawarkan ruang menikmati minuman dan makanan, tetapi turut berfungsi sebagai ruang santai untuk belajar, berbincang dan berinteraksi. Beliau menjelaskan bahawa ruang di aras besmen tersebut telah didedikasikan sebagai pusat aktiviti pelajar termasuk pembelajaran, perbincangan serta program komuniti seperti seni dan muzik, dan kehadiran kafe ini dilihat dapat menghidupkan serta memeriahkan lagi fungsi ruang berkenaan.

    Selaras dengan aspirasi Perak Sejahtera 2030, inisiatif ini memperlihatkan usaha memperkukuh pembangunan ekonomi tempatan melalui pengukuhan rantaian nilai domestik, sejajar dengan flagship Program Mesra Pelabur. Pendekatan ini dilaksanakan melalui kerjasama dengan usahawan dan pembekal tempatan bagi memperkukuh ekosistem “Made in Perak”, di samping membuka peluang pembangunan keusahawanan menerusi model perniagaan fleksibel seperti mikro-francais.

    Menurut Timbalan Ketua Eksekutif (Perhubungan Korporat) PKNPk, Puan Nurdita Fadzlinda binti Ahmad Rasidi, inisiatif ini mencerminkan pendekatan holistik dalam merangsang pertumbuhan ekonomi negeri. Beliau berkata ia bukan sahaja memperkukuh rantaian nilai tempatan, malah mewujudkan lebih banyak peluang kepada usahawan dan pemain industri untuk berkembang dalam ekosistem yang lebih tersusun dan berdaya tahan.

    Selain itu, kehadiran Bean Here! di institusi pendidikan tinggi turut menyokong agenda Koridor TVET Malaysia dan pemerkasaan modal insan melalui latihan industri, pembangunan kemahiran serta peluang pekerjaan kepada belia. Ini secara tidak langsung memperkukuh agenda pembelajaran sepanjang hayat dalam bidang perkhidmatan dan keusahawanan, di samping menyumbang kepada pembinaan ekosistem sosial yang lebih inklusif dan dinamik.

    Tambah beliau, usaha ini turut selari dengan keutamaan negeri dalam pembangunan bakat dan kesejahteraan komuniti, di mana penglibatan sektor swasta dan institusi pendidikan dilihat mampu memperkasa golongan belia dengan kemahiran relevan serta mewujudkan persekitaran yang menyokong interaksi sosial dan pembangunan komuniti secara inklusif.

    Dari sudut penjenamaan negeri, inisiatif ini memperkukuh imej Perak sebagai negeri yang progresif, mesra pelaburan serta berorientasikan bakat, inovasi dan keterangkuman. Pada masa yang sama, penerapan amalan lestari seperti pengurangan penggunaan plastik dan pengurusan sisa secara bertanggungjawab mencerminkan komitmen terhadap agenda pembangunan mampan jangka panjang.

    Majlis pembukaan ini dirasmikan secara bersama oleh Tuan Haji Radzuan Razali dan Puan Nurdita Fadzlinda yang mewakili Ketua Eksekutif PKNPk, Datuk Redza Rafiq. Turut hadir ialah barisan pengurusan KPTM, Silver Lifestyle dan PKNPk sebagai simbol sokongan berterusan terhadap usaha memperkukuh ekosistem ekonomi dan sosial negeri Perak.

  • Nestlé Malaysia and JAKIM Reinforce Long-Standing Partnership to Empower Communities and Elevate Halal Integrity

    Nestlé Malaysia and JAKIM Reinforce Long-Standing Partnership to Empower Communities and Elevate Halal Integrity

    Nestlé Malaysia and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) have formalized a renewed strategic commitment to the national Halal agenda through the launch of the SYNERGY (Strengthening Your Network and Ecosystem for Resilient Growth) initiative. Under the thematic banner of ‘Memacu Halal, Memperkasa Komuniti’, the partnership seeks to fortify an inclusive and sustainable Halal industry, further cementing Malaysia’s leadership within the global Halal economy.

    JAKIM has commended Nestlé Malaysia for its sophisticated end-to-end Halal ecosystem—a framework the company has refined since it first pioneered Halal practices in the 1970s. Serving as the Global Centre of Halal Excellence for the Nestlé Group, the Malaysian division now acts as a primary knowledge hub, exporting local expertise across its international network to enhance global trust in Malaysian Halal standards.

    The partnership underscores the necessity of a unified front between regulators and industry leaders to maintain the integrity of the Halal value chain. Nestlé’s commitment is evident from its certified manufacturing facilities to its extensive grassroots outreach. By aligning with JAKIM, the company is scaling initiatives designed to empower Malaysian youth, support local entrepreneurs, and optimize the national supply chain, ensuring that the benefits of the Halal economy reach all levels of society.

    Education and human capital development remain central to this long-term strategy. Key highlights include:

    • Halal@School: A collaboration with Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) that has introduced Halal values to over 6,000 students.
    • Halal@STEM: Launched in 2025 to encourage secondary students to explore science through a Halal lens, supported by the inaugural HalalSTEM Expo.
    • Nestlé Youngpreneurs Programme: A business mentorship initiative that has equipped 200 university students with practical insights into Halal best practices.

    Beyond education, Nestlé Malaysia continues to drive capability-building within the SME sector. Since 2010, its SME Mentoring Programme has assisted more than 1,200 enterprises in achieving Halal certification. In a more recent development, Nestlé and JAKIM introduced a specialized mentoring program for third-party logistics (3PL) providers, engaging 27 companies to ensure rigorous compliance across the entire logistics and delivery network.

    Through these multifaceted efforts—including a nationwide awareness podcast with the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM)—Nestlé Malaysia and JAKIM are ensuring that Halal remains a core organizational and national value, providing a resilient foundation for the future of the global Halal sector.

  • Applecrumby® x Hock Kee: A Unique Blend of Heritage Flavors and Premium Family Essentials

    Applecrumby® x Hock Kee: A Unique Blend of Heritage Flavors and Premium Family Essentials

    This May, the “Celebrate Every Crumby Moment” campaign brings together Applecrumby® and Hock Kee Kopitiam in a heartwarming nationwide collaboration to celebrate Mother’s Day. Running from 1 to 31 May 2026, this strategic partnership bridges the gap between traditional Malaysian flavors and modern family essentials.

    At 20 Hock Kee locations across the country, families can now enjoy a limited-edition pink egg tart box specially designed as a tribute to motherhood. Each purchase of six egg tarts is paired with a complimentary pack of Applecrumby® premium honey wipes, offering a thoughtful and practical solution for the delightful messes that often come with family gatherings.

    The initiative is born from a shared philosophy between Jesmine Tan, Co-Founder of Applecrumby®, and Nick Ng, Founder of Hock Kee Kopitiam, both of whom believe that the most meaningful memories are found in simple, daily interactions. To make the campaign even more engaging, patrons will be greeted by “Friends of Applecrumby®” plushies sporting custom Hock Kee aprons at various outlets.

    The creative direction of the campaign also introduces the character Trudy Hopps on the packaging, blending icons of coffee and wipes to symbolize how both brands work together to support the well-being and happiness of Malaysian households.

    Beyond the dining table, the celebration extends into the digital space with an interactive social media giveaway featuring 18 exclusive dressed plushies for lucky followers. For those who prefer to celebrate from home, the partnership offers special online discounts via promo codes for the Applecrumby® website, catering to both new and loyal customers.

    With a presence in major retail hubs from The Gardens Mall and Bangsar South to outlets in Johor and Ipoh, Applecrumby® and Hock Kee are ensuring that every family has the opportunity to honor the women in their lives with a perfect mix of sweetness and care.

  • The Essential Role of Protein in Daily Strength, Energy and Recovery

    The Essential Role of Protein in Daily Strength, Energy and Recovery

    Protein is often associated with athletes, gym routines, or weight goals, but its role in the body extends far beyond physical performance. For active adults, protein serves as a daily foundation that supports strength, energy, recovery, and overall well-being. Whether someone exercises regularly, stays active through work, or simply aims to feel stronger and more resilient, consistent protein intake plays an important role in supporting an active lifestyle.

    According to Dr. Krissy Ladner, Director of Sports Performance and Nutrition Education at Herbalife, protein provides the essential building blocks needed to maintain and repair muscle tissue. She explains that every time we move, lift, walk, or exercise, muscle fibres are placed under stress, and protein supports the body in recovering from this stress by maintaining and rebuilding lean muscle mass. Over time, this process contributes to physical strength, mobility, and metabolic health, all of which are important for staying active at any age. Lean muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it plays a key role in how the body uses energy, and sufficient protein intake helps support a healthy metabolism and long-term weight management when combined with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.

    Director, Sports Performance and Nutrition Education

    A common misconception is that protein is only necessary after intense exercise or for those aiming to build muscle. In reality, the body benefits most when protein is consumed consistently throughout the day. The Malaysian Dietary Guidelines 2020 highlight that protein deficiency, which can occur at any age due to poor diet or illness, is associated with impaired growth, weakened immunity, and loss of muscle mass, increasing the risk of stunting in children and frailty in older adults. Distributing protein intake across meals helps maintain steady energy levels, support muscle maintenance, and improve appetite control, as meals with adequate protein tend to be more satisfying and help reduce energy dips often caused by high intake of refined carbohydrates. Combining protein with carbohydrates after physical activity also helps replenish energy stores while supporting muscle recovery, improving overall recovery and consistency in staying active.

    The quality and variety of protein sources are equally important. Lean animal proteins such as fish, poultry, eggs, and lower-fat dairy provide essential amino acids in highly bioavailable forms, while plant-based sources such as legumes, soy products, nuts, seeds, and whole grains contribute protein along with fibre and phytonutrients. Including a variety of protein sources helps individuals meet their nutritional needs while supporting overall diet quality. However, modern lifestyles can make it difficult to meet daily protein requirements through meals alone, with busy schedules, long working hours, and irregular eating patterns often leading to gaps. In such cases, convenient options like protein-rich snacks, smoothies, or shakes can help support intake without excessive portions or calorie intake, especially on demanding days.

    Consistent protein intake supports how we move, recover and perform daily.

    As we age, the body naturally becomes less efficient at maintaining muscle mass, a process that can begin as early as midlife and may impact strength, balance, and mobility if not addressed. Consistent protein intake helps support muscle maintenance and repair, which is essential for maintaining an active, resilient, and independent lifestyle over time. Preserving lean muscle is not only important for performance but also for everyday function, as activities such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, and maintaining balance all rely on muscle strength. When combined with regular physical activity, adequate protein intake helps the body adapt to physical stress and maintain functional capacity throughout life.

    While the recommended protein intake is 0.83 g/kg body weight per day, the focus is not on excess, restriction, or perfection but on consistency. Simple daily habits such as including protein at breakfast, balancing meals, and planning ahead during busy days can make a meaningful difference over time. Ultimately, protein is not limited to athletes or specific fitness goals but is a fundamental nutrient that supports movement, recovery, and long-term vitality. When consumed consistently and as part of a balanced diet, it becomes a key foundation for maintaining an active and energised life.

  • A Royal Pairing: Hock Kee Kopitiam Partners with D.Masking for the Ultimate Musang King Experience

    A Royal Pairing: Hock Kee Kopitiam Partners with D.Masking for the Ultimate Musang King Experience

    Two standard-bearers of Malaysian heritage, Hock Kee Kopitiam and D.MasKing by DSR Taiko Berhad, have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch an innovative “orchard-to-kopitiam” dining concept. This partnership marks a pivotal shift in the local food and beverage landscape, merging the luxury of authentic Musang King durian with the enduring appeal of traditional kopitiam culture. By utilizing certified premium fruits from the orchards of Raub, Pahang, the collaboration offers an elevated experience that bridges the gap between rural agricultural excellence and urban lifestyle dining.

    The collaboration introduces an exclusive suite of durian-based retail and menu products, meticulously crafted to complement the existing favorites at Hock Kee Kopitiam. Diners can expect a refined twist on local staples, featuring Roti Bakar with Durian Kaya and butter, alongside specialized beverages including Durian-infused Coffee and Durian Teh Tarik. The dessert portfolio is further enhanced by three distinct durian ice cream formats—soft serve, gelato, and sticks—while a range of take-home products such as Durian Dark Chocolate and Durian Chips allows customers to enjoy the collaboration beyond the restaurant walls. These offerings will be rolled out across high-traffic locations including Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC), Bangsar South, The Gardens, and key outlets in Johor Bahru.

    (Middle left) Nick Ng, Founder of Hock Kee Kopitiam and YBhg. Dato” Ng Lian Poh, CEO of DSR Taiko Berhad (Middle right) officiate the New Range of Durian-based Products launching.

    At the core of this partnership is a shared commitment to quality and provenance. DSR Taiko Berhad enters the agreement as Malaysia’s first and only company capable of certifying the authentic source of Musang King durians. This level of transparency is achieved through the proprietary Musang King Integrated Traceability System (MKITS)® and a rigorous Standard of Quality (SOQ) protocol, ensuring every fruit used is fully authenticated from the orchard to the consumer’s table. This focus on traceability provides a new benchmark for trust within the industry, ensuring that the “King of Fruits” maintains its premium status in every application.

    Guests and media enjoyed premium Musang King, reimagined into familiar local flavours by Hock Kee Kopitiam and D.Masking.

    Dato’ Ng Lian Poh, CEO of DSR Taiko Berhad, emphasized that the collaboration is a vehicle for innovation that stays true to Malaysian roots, making premium durians accessible in a way that feels both modern and authentic. Nick Ng, Founder of Hock Kee Kopitiam, noted that the partnership aligns perfectly with the brand’s mission to champion the spirit of Muhibbah and comfort. He stated that the introduction of Musang King is a strategic move to elevate the familiar kopitiam experience, offering customers a premium touch that honors the rich flavors of Malaysia. Together, Hock Kee and D.MasKing aim to create a dining narrative that celebrates the journey of local produce and the artistry of homegrown recipes.