KOTA KINABALU: July 18, 2026 – Keningau native Arjenier Leong Xiao Fu has been named among the top 12 finalists in the Marriott International APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship 2026 – Malaysia, which took place in June.
The bartender from Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu earned recognition for his signature cocktail, Tandahau Ember, which showcases Sabah’s heritage using local ingredients such as lihing, pickled bambangan and Sabah ginger soda.
Although he did not progress to the top three, the achievement is seen as a reflection of the growing local talent in the regional hospitality industry.
Arjenier said this year’s participation was especially meaningful, as he successfully qualified for the competition for the third consecutive time.
“I am very happy to be recognised among the top 12 finalists. This competition reflects my growth and my hope to continue creating drinks that carry the spirit of Sabah,” he said.
The Tandahau Ember cocktail uses Monkey 47 as its base, combined with lihing, pickled bambangan and Sabah ginger soda.
In the Kadazan Dusun language, “Tandahau” means spirit or energy, while “Ember” symbolises warmth and strength – capturing the essence and heritage of Sabah.
The cocktail also embraces a sustainable approach, using leftover bambangan peel as a garnish to reduce waste.
Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu General Manager Suresh Ramasamy said Arjenier’s achievement demonstrates that Sabah’s local culture and ingredients can be showcased through creativity in the hospitality industry.
The championship recognises bartenders based on creativity, sustainable practices and commercial performance, including sales revenue, social media engagement and customer feedback. The regional judging round took place on 10 June 2026 at The Westin Jakarta, Indonesia.
