Fresh off its third consecutive international win, Malaysia’s homegrown craft brewery PaperKite is redefining what “Made in Malaysia” means, teaming up with Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur to showcase local excellence in world-class style.
When PaperKite was founded in 2022, few could have predicted how far a small Malaysian brewery could go in a country more famous for its vibrant food culture than its beer scene. Yet in just three short years, this proudly local craft brand has managed to do what once seemed out of reach: win international beer awards three years in a row and forge a partnership with one of the world’s top luxury hotels.
At a glittering celebration atop Merdeka 118 — Asia’s tallest building — PaperKite announced its collaboration with Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. It was both a toast to its triple victory at the World Beer Awards and a statement of intent for the future of Malaysian craft beer.
“PaperKite has always been about more than just brewing,” says founder Alvin Lim. “It’s about crafting stories and experiences that reflect local pride with global standards.”
CELEBRATING MALAYSIAN EXCELLENCE
The partnership marks an important milestone for Malaysia’s emerging premium beverage scene. Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur’s general manager, Herman Kemp, described it as a natural match between two brands devoted to quality, authenticity, and a sense of place.
“We believe in creating experiences that celebrate the best of every moment,” Kemp said. “Partnering with PaperKite lets us honour local creativity by giving guests a taste of a truly world-class Malaysian craft beer.”
Guests at the launch event were treated to an elevated tasting experience featuring three of PaperKite’s award-winning beers paired with artisanal chocolate from Cacao Mixology and Chocolate. The unexpected combination — Oatmeal Stout with rich dark cacao, and IPA with citrus-infused truffles — highlighted the sophistication and range of the brewery’s offerings.
The brand’s six core beers — IPA, Copper Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Pale Ale, Hoppy Lager, and Witbier — are all brewed in Malaysia by a local team. Lim insists the goal was never to imitate Europe’s brewing heritage but to create something that resonates with Malaysian tastes and identity.
“We’re not trying to be German or Belgian,” he explains. “We’re simply showing that Malaysian craftsmanship can stand on its own.”
A GROWING CULTURE OF QUALITY
PaperKite’s success is not only about medals and recognition; it signals a broader cultural shift. Malaysia’s beer market has long been dominated by mass-produced lagers, and local brewers face strict regulations. The fact that a small craft brewery can thrive in this environment speaks to changing tastes and growing appreciation for quality over quantity.
“More Malaysians are looking for something better,” Lim says. “They’re curious, they’re proud, and they want products that reflect their own culture.”
This spirit is captured in PaperKite’s tagline: “Brewed only for thirsty Malaysians who simply want better beer.” It’s a light-hearted line, but one that reflects genuine ambition: to prove that local products can achieve international standards while remaining true to their roots. (Despite the tagline, we’re pretty sure they won’t mind if non-Malaysians buy and enjoy their beer, though.)
Since taking home its first World Beer Award in 2023, followed by wins in 2024 and 2025, PaperKite has become a symbol of Malaysia’s growing confidence in the global craft beer scene. Its achievements have also inspired other small producers to take bold steps, redefining what premium means in a local context.
The partnership with Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur underscores this evolution. For the hotel, it’s an opportunity to showcase Malaysian innovation to an international audience. For PaperKite, it’s proof that a homegrown brand can share space with the world’s finest and belong there naturally.
Behind the success lies a sense of shared aspiration. Both the brewery and the hotel see their collaboration as a way to promote Malaysian craftsmanship on a global stage. It’s not just about beer or luxury hospitality — it’s about setting new benchmarks for local excellence.
For Lim and his team, the journey is far from over. “Winning awards is wonderful,” he says, “but what matters most is seeing Malaysians take pride in something made right here.”
As glasses clinked high above Kuala Lumpur, it was clear that PaperKite’s story is about more than just brewing beer. It’s about proving that world-class quality can come from anywhere, and that Malaysia’s creative spirit continues to soar.
Drop in to Park Hyatt or PaperKite’s hard-to-miss Chicken & Beer outlets in Bangsar (pictured) and Damansara Uptown. Trust us: tasty, crispy fried chicken and cold, award-winning craft beer is a match made in heaven.
