The long-awaited arrival of Australia’s renowned Dragon Hot Pot has finally made its mark in Malaysia with a grand opening at Bukit Bintang’s Low Yat Park. Spanning 2,600 square feet, the outlet officially brings the brand’s globally viral custom-made malatang concept to local diners, making Kuala Lumpur its newest culinary hotspot. The opening ceremony was officiated by Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, who recognized Dragon Hot Pot as a timely and valuable addition to Malaysia’s evolving food and tourism landscape.
In his address, Lee highlighted the significance of the launch in light of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, the nation’s largest tourism initiative. He pointed out that the event coincided with the recently tabled Budget 2026, in which Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced over RM700 million to strengthen the tourism sector. Of this amount, RM500 million was allocated specifically to support Visit Malaysia 2026. Lee noted that this investment demonstrated strong confidence in Malaysia’s tourism potential and emphasized the importance of promoting the nation’s vibrant culinary scene as one of its greatest attractions.
He also referred to a new measure under Budget 2026 that has generated widespread public interest a special individual income tax relief of up to RM1,000 for expenses related to entrance fees to local attractions and cultural programs. Describing the move as a smart and practical initiative, Lee said it would encourage domestic travel while stimulating spending within the local economy. He explained that when Malaysians explore museums, parks, and cultural destinations, they not only enrich their own experiences but also support small and medium-sized enterprises in accommodation, transportation, food, and culture the true lifeblood of Malaysia’s tourism ecosystem.
Lee added that Kuala Lumpur’s diverse food landscape is an integral part of the visitor experience, noting that destinations like Dragon Hot Pot enhance the capital’s growing reputation as a haven for food lovers.
The highlight of the event was Dragon Hot Pot Malaysia’s recognition by ASEAN Records for achieving the title of “Most Hotpot Ingredient and Soup Base Variety by an Australian Mala Hotpot Brand.” With an impressive offering of 162 ingredients displayed on its self-service racks and 10 distinctive soup bases, the brand has established itself as one of the most diverse and customizable hot pot experiences in the region.
Brand founder Louis Kuo expressed his enthusiasm about redefining the hot pot experience for modern lifestyles. He shared that while hot pot has traditionally been a slow, communal dining affair, Dragon Hot Pot’s concept aims to make it more accessible and convenient for urban diners. Whether it is a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a late-night craving, the brand offers an authentic and flavourful experience without compromising on quality.
At the core of Dragon Hot Pot’s success is its unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, and inclusivity. The brand’s signature broths, including its famous Malatang, are prepared from century-old Sichuan recipes and simmered for over 12 hours using old chickens, more than 20 Chinese herbs, and real Sichuan pepper. In Malaysia, the menu has been tailored to be entirely pork-free, lard-free, and alcohol-free, ensuring a Muslim-friendly dining experience while retaining its original flavours. The company is also in the process of obtaining halal certification from JAKIM to further solidify its presence in the local market.
Operated by Taste of Malaysia Hot Pot Sdn. Bhd., the Bukit Bintang outlet marks the beginning of Dragon Hot Pot’s regional expansion beyond Australia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, with Japan slated to follow in 2026. Over the next two years, the brand plans to open five to six additional outlets across the Klang Valley and other major cities in Malaysia. It is also inviting local entrepreneurs to explore franchising opportunities as part of its growth strategy.
The grand opening was a lively cultural celebration, featuring a captivating lion and dragon dance performance, a graceful traditional Chinese fan dance, and live entertainment by popular artists STEADYGANG and Diana Danielle. Guests were treated to interactive games and an exclusive promotion where eager visitors received a complimentary 300g portion of hot pot, creating long queues of excited diners eager to sample the much-talked-about Malatang.
Throughout October, Dragon Hot Pot Malaysia continues to delight food enthusiasts with two major promotions. From 18 to 20 October, customers enjoy the first 300g of their malatang free, paying only for any additional weight. The excitement carries on from 21 to 31 October, where customers who spend RM25 or more will receive a scratch card with a chance to win prizes such as an iPad, AirPods, exclusive Labubu collectibles, dining vouchers, and the grand prize of one year’s worth of free Dragon Hot Pot meals. For the latest updates, promotions, and announcements, visit Dragon Hot Pot Malaysia’s official Instagram, Facebook, and Rednote accounts at @DragonHotPot_MY.