The HEINEKEN Regional Bartender Finals 2026 brought together top bartenders from Malaysia and Indonesia for the first time, with finalists from their respective Star Academy and Star Quality Programme competing for the regional title. I Wayan Sudiana, representing Bali, emerged as champion.
The competition followed months of training, assessments and outlet-level contests in both countries.
In Malaysia, Star Academy has trained more than 12,000 bartenders since its inception and reached more than 600 partner outlets in 2026. The programme is expected to train a record 2,500 bartenders this year, with sessions extending to smaller cities and outlying areas including Miri, Bintulu, Sandakan, Alor Setar and Port Dickson.
Beyond technical skills, Star Academy also covers responsible alcohol service, including how to encourage consumers to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
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