__thumb.jpg)
Kuala Lumpur is set to host its first-ever Cocktail Week (KLCW) from 24th to 30th April 2024, promising a vibrant celebration of mixology that marries the traditional with the contemporary. This landmark event is dedicated to promoting the city's burgeoning cocktail culture, offering a platform for local and international bartenders to showcase their skills and for enthusiasts to explore the art of cocktail making.
Week-Long Festivities Across 5 Zones
KLCW will transform Kuala Lumpur into a cocktail haven, dividing the city into 5 zones including Bangsar, Petaling Jaya/ Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Damansara Heights, Chinatown, and Kuala Lumpur City Centre. Each zone will host its own unique events leading up to the Festival Village extravaganza at APW Bangsar on 27th April.
Global Guest Bar Takeovers and Local Talent
Highlighting the week are takeovers by some of Asia’s most acclaimed industry giants such as Alice Cheongdam (KR), Atlas (SG), Bar Long Fong (CN), Bar Leone (HK), Cosmo Pony (JKT), Employees Only (SG), GOD (TH), Nutmeg & Clove (SG), Last Word (SG), Room By Lekief (TW), Sidecar (IN), Teens of Thailand (TH), The Cocktail Club (ID) and Tokyo Confidential (JP), alongside Kuala Lumpur's finest establishments including Concubine, Frank’s Bar, Here & Now, Ikiya 2.0, Jann, Joloko, JungleBird, JWS Cabinet, Penrose, Rakh, Reka, Remedy, Skullduggery, Soma, Terumi, Three X Co, Trigona and Vér Bar. These collaborations are set to offer attendees a world-class drinking experience, showcasing innovative mixology trends and techniques. A complete festival calendar will be released closer to the date of event.
Enlightening Sessions, Seminars and Masterclasses
This immersive experience will feature cocktail bars, seminars and masterclasses, providing attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to interact with leading spirit brands and mixologists aimed at both educating enthusiasts and fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft of cocktail making.
Shake It Up with the KLCW Open Cocktail Competition
A cornerstone of the festival, the KLCW Open Cocktail Competition is aimed at uncovering the best bartending talent in Malaysia. Open to all bartenders across the nation, the competition seeks to highlight the creativity and skill inherent in Malaysia's cocktail scene. With a total of RM6,000 to be won, it's an opportunity for professionals to showcase their expertise and gain recognition. There will also be a bonus social media prize. Details on the competition will be released at a later date.
Immerse Yourself at the KLCW Festival Village at APW
A day of festivities awaits at the APW Festival Village on 27th April, starting from 3.00 pm to 11.00pm. Guests can taste a wide array of cocktails from many distinguished brands, witness the thrilling finals of the cocktail competition, enjoy live music, participate in masterclasses, and engage in entertaining games. It’s a day designed to celebrate the craft of cocktails in a festive and interactive environment.
Cocktails and Culinary Pairings
KLCW elevates the cocktail experience with exclusive cocktail pairing dinners at renowned eateries like, Yellow Fin Horse, Terra Dining, Jwala, Jus (by Atelier Binchotan), Waig (by Chipta11a), and Barkar (by Eat & Cook), marrying exquisite cuisine with bespoke cocktails.
The KLCW Committee
The KLCW committee comprises of individuals who are from different segments of the food and drink industry including Angeline Tan of Three X Co., with Divyesh Chuhan of JungleBird, Jin Boone Ooi of Wholly Spirits, Joshua Ivanovic of JungleBird, Jon Lee of Penrose, Lolita Goh of JungleBird, Matthew Goh of Penrose, Nick Choo of Reka, Nicholas Ng of Food For Thought and Tipple.my, and Rohan Matmary of Bar Trigona.
Sponsorship and Support from Industry Giants
The festival is proud to be supported by an impressive roster of primary sponsors, including main sponsors Bombay Sapphire, Cocchi Vermouth, Dewar’s Whisky, Hendrick’s Gin, Michter’s Whiskey, Monkey Shoulder, Rémy Martin, Roku Gin, Tanqueray Gin and secondary sponsors Nikka, Campari, Cointreau, Deacon, Gajardo, Giffard, Malfy Gin, Planteray, and The Guard Bridge (Blended Malt Scotch Whisky). These partnerships underscore the industry's commitment to excellence and innovation. Perrier joins as the official water sponsor, ensuring guests stay refreshed, while APW offers the perfect location for the Festival Village venue sponsor, and FunNow facilitates seamless ticketing as bookings partner.
An Invitation to Celebrate in Malaysian Mixology
KLCW extends an open invitation to locals and visitors to dive into a week of discovery, enjoyment, and appreciation of cocktails and spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or curious newcomer, the festival promises an array of experiences to suit every taste.
For further information and to secure your tickets, please visit Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week’s Instagram page @klcwofficial and website klcw.my/.
