AdminHeineken Malaysia’s National Star Academy Championship and Training has returned for its 2024 edition, inviting bartenders from across the country to showcase their skills and earn a place on the global stage. Since its inception in 2018, the Star Academy programme has been at the forefront of raising standards within the services sector, focusing on the art of the perfect pour for beers in Heineken Malaysia’s portfolio, particularly Heineken® and Guinness.
This year marks the seventh edition of the programme, with training sessions held in key cities across Malaysia, including Selangor, Johor, Perak, Penang, Sabah, and Sarawak. Over 1,300 bartenders are participating in these sessions, where they are taught the essentials of beer pouring, from achieving the ideal temperature to ensuring glass cleanliness. Upon completion, participants will compete in regional competitions, leading to the National Championship in September. The ultimate victor will represent Malaysia at the Global Bartender Finals in Amsterdam, the birthplace of Heineken®.
Enhanced Training Experience
This year’s training sessions introduced a more dynamic and interactive experience for participants. Expert-led workshops are a key feature, offering bartenders an opportunity to familiarize themselves with Heineken Malaysia’s diverse portfolio. Additionally, the workshops emphasize the 7C’s Quality Guide—a comprehensive set of guidelines ensuring the perfect pour. This guide covers every aspect of beer serving, from maintaining the optimal temperature to ensuring glass cleanliness, and mastering the art of the perfect pour.
Cian Hulm, Commercial Quality Manager, highlighted the importance of the 7C’s Quality Guide during a recent Star Academy Regional Training session, noting its role in elevating the overall drinking experience for consumers. Through these trainings, Heineken Malaysia is committed to maintaining the high standards that define its brands.
A Platform for Growth and Excellence
Heineken Malaysia’s Managing Director, Martijn van Keulen, emphasized the broader impact of the Star Academy programme on the nation’s economic and social growth. “At Heineken Malaysia, Brewing the Joy of True Togetherness is more than just a mission — it’s our purpose,” said Martijn. “Our Star Academy programme goes beyond a training platform; it’s an empowering journey for our partners and bartenders. By enriching their knowledge and refining their skills, we ensure they deliver the perfect pour, every time, enhancing the experience for our consumers.”
Since its launch, the Star Academy has trained over 10,000 bartenders, contributing significantly to the food and beverage sector and the tourism industry. This initiative not only creates jobs but also empowers local businesses by refining bartending skills and fostering a culture of excellence among local bars and bartenders.
Exciting New Additions for 2024
The 2024 edition of the Star Academy Championship introduces several exciting new elements. The National Champion will earn the prestigious opportunity to represent Malaysia at the Global Bartender Finals in Amsterdam. This year, the Star Academy will also see the return of former champions, who will serve as ambassadors, sharing their expertise and insights with current participants. Some of these former champions will also join the panel of judges for the national competition.
Additionally, a new mixology experience has been introduced, inspired by the Alps and featuring Edelweiss. This segment encourages bartenders to experiment with creative cocktail crafting, blending tradition with contemporary flair. This dual focus on technical skills and creativity ensures that participants are well-prepared to excel on both the national and global stages.
As the Star Academy 2024 progresses, anticipation builds towards the grand finale in September, where regional champions will compete for the coveted spot at the Global Bartender Finals. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting journey.
For more information on Heineken Malaysia and its initiatives, please visit www.heinekenmalaysia.com.
Jimmy Tan
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