The ASEAN Records Gala Night 2025, held at the Andaman Ballroom, Kuala Lumpur, was graced by the esteemed presence of Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Melaka, who attended the celebration as the Guest of Honour, in recognition of regional unity and verified excellence.
During the evening, Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam was officially recognised by ASEAN Records for: First and Only Sitting State Governor in ASEAN to Receive a National Sports Leadership Award (Anugerah Tokoh Sukan Negara, presented by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on 13 May 2024)
This recognition highlights his contributions to public service, youth and sports development, and his unique role in championing national unity through sports.
Asia Records Officially Launched — Officiated by Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam
In addition to receiving his ASEAN Records recognition, Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam officiated the official launch of Asia Records, a new continental-scale platform dedicated to recognising Asia’s most outstanding achievements in innovation, enterprise, culture, and global impact.
While Asia Records and ASEAN Records operate as independent entities, they share a common purpose — to document measurable, verifiable, and inspiring accomplishments that define the spirit of regional and continental excellence.
Tun Ali Rustam’s presence signified a strong endorsement of continental collaboration and a shared vision for elevating Asia’s profile on the global stage.
A Night of Inspiration and Regional Pride
The launch ceremony was witnessed by over 550 guests, including regional record holders, ministry representatives, corporate leaders, and media. As Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam took the stage, the hall responded with a standing ovation — a testament to the respect he commands throughout Southeast Asia.
As the Governor of Melaka, his leadership has made significant contributions to sports, tourism, heritage preservation, and youth empowerment — all of which continue to shape Melaka’s role as a progressive and inclusive state.
With Deepest Appreciation
We extend our sincere gratitude to Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam for honouring the event with his presence and for officiating the historic launch of Asia Records. His enduring leadership continues to inspire excellence, unity, and vision — across both ASEAN and the broader Asian continent.
In a defining moment for regional recognition, ASEAN Records has officially launched Asia Records, expanding its reach beyond Southeast Asia to honour extraordinary achievements across the entire continent.
This historic milestone was unveiled at the ASEAN Records Gala Night, held in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit — a pivotal occasion as Malaysia leads the region on the global stage.
The launch ceremony was officiated by Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor) of Melaka, alongside with Mr Rizal bin Dato’ Nainy, Chief Executive Officer of SME Corporation Malaysia, Mr Chua Choon Hwa, Deputy Secretary General (Tourism) of Ministrry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), MrEldrick Koh and Ms Gillian Ooi, Managing Directors of ASEAN Records and Asia Records,
From ASEAN to Asia: A Bigger Stage for Continental Excellence
Founded on the principle of measurable and verifiable excellence, Asia Records recognises the highest levels of achievement across innovation, culture, enterprise, tourism, sustainability, and global impact.
It builds on the strong foundation of ASEAN Records, which has surpassed 200 certified achievements across Southeast Asia since its official launch in November 2024.
With the domainsecured since 2013, Asia Records is positioned as a globally trusted platform governed by international credibility standards — offering individuals, businesses, and changemakers a larger platform to document history, showcase progress, and unite the region under excellence.
“We don’t just keep records — we define history for ASEAN and Asia.”
A Night of Milestones at the ASEAN Records Gala Night
Held at a prestigious venue in Kuala Lumpur, the ASEAN Records Gala Night 2025 marked several historic achievements in a single evening:
48 newly certified records presented
8 upcoming record attempts announced
108 previously certified records acknowledged
Over 550 distinguished guests in attendance
This became the largest gathering ever organised under ASEAN Records — a true celebration of verified impact and regional excellence.
Asia Records Launch Highlights
The launch ceremony of Asia Records also featured a joint press statement from ASEAN Records and Asia Records.
The side launches of:
ASEAN Tourism Records, endorsed by ASEANTA
Asia Tourism Records, the continental counterpart
These initiatives aim to further elevate Asia and ASEAN as cultural and tourism powerhouses, aligning with shared goals for sustainability and regional pride.
The evening also included the ASEAN Street Exhibition, featuring cultural showcases from all 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste, celebrating unity in diversity.
Visit Malaysia 2026 Preview and Mascot Showcase
A featured segment unveiled Wira and Manja, the official mascots of Visit Malaysia 2026, representing the Malayan sun bear as a national symbol of conservation and hospitality.
50 pairs of mascots paraded the venue — igniting excitement for the upcoming tourism campaign and Malaysia’s cultural leadership in ASEAN.
Official Record Recognition Highlights
The evening also recognised to Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, officially inducted into ASEAN Records as the: First and Only Sitting State Governor in ASEAN to Receive a National Sports Leadership Award (Anugerah Tokoh Sukan Negara, 13 May 2024)
Mark & Pinky, internationally acclaimed Malaysian illusionists, who: Broke the World Record for Most Costume Change Illusions in One Minute (Officially certified by Asia Records — performed live at the gala)
About Asia Records
Asia Records is a continental expansion of ASEAN Records, committed to recognising the most impactful achievements across Asia — in culture, innovation, sustainability, and enterprise. It is positioned to become Asia’s leading professional recognition platform, governed by rigorous standards of verification and integrity.
Dragon Hotpot, the Australian-founded hotpot sensation known for its authentic Sichuan-style mala experience, has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the milestone: Most Hotpot Ingredient and Soup Base Variety by an Australian Mala Hotpot Brand (162 ingredients from self-service rack and 10 soup bases)
This official ASEAN Records was proudly presented to Jeremy Chia and De Jie Hau, Master Franchisees for Malaysia, along with David Loh and Louis Kuo, Brand Founders of Dragon Hotpot. The presentation took place at Dragon Hotpot’s flagship location in Low Yat Park, Bukit Bintang, where the brand’s signature self-service rack and customisable soup base system were on full display.
A Customisable Feast Like No Other
This record celebrates Dragon Hotpot’s unmatched dedication to personalised hotpot dining — offering an extensive 162-ingredient self-service selection, including premium meats, fresh seafood, handmade meatballs, assorted vegetables, tofu varieties, and over a dozen types of noodles. These are paired with 10 authentic soup bases, such as the famous Sichuan Mala Broth, Collagen Bone Soup, and Tomato Herbal.
The variety not only allows diners to customise their bowl to their unique taste, spice level, and dietary needs — it also delivers an immersive cultural experience deeply rooted in Sichuan cuisine.
From Melbourne to Malaysia — A Mala Movement
Since launching in Melbourne, Dragon Hotpot has grown into a globally recognised brand with dozens of outlets, including across Australia, China, and Southeast Asia. Its expansion into Malaysia through Taste of Hotpot Malaysia Sdn Bhd has brought the brand’s fiery reputation to a new generation of foodies in Kuala Lumpur.
“This recognition from ASEAN Records affirms our mission to provide the most diverse and high-quality hotpot experience in every country we enter,” said David Loh, Brand Founder. “Malaysian customers have embraced the brand with open arms — and we are committed to continuously delivering innovation, authenticity, and flavour.”
About Dragon Hotpot
Dragon Hotpot is a fast-growing, self-service Mala hotpot brand known for its wide variety of customisable bowls served. Combining fast service, fresh ingredients, and authentic flavours, the brand delivers a unique experience where every bowl is weighed, cooked, and seasoned to perfection based on each customer’s chosen ingredients.
The brand continues to grow in Asia and globally — proving that spicy, comforting, made-to-orderhotpot has a place in every major city. For more information, visit: https://www.dragonhotpot.com.au
Kunkwan International Mandarin Training Centre has been officially recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving a remarkable milestone in the field of language education and cultural outreach: “Most Non-Chinese Adults in Online Mandarin Classes Since 2014”A total of 442,652 non-Chinese adult learners across ASEAN and beyond
This prestigious recognition was presented during an official ceremony held at Dewan TAR UMT — a symbolic moment reflecting the founder’s belief in purposeful learning and cultural alignment. The ASEAN Records certificate was formally presented to Mr Kent Ng Kun Kwan, Founder of Kunkwan and a passionate advocate of cross-cultural understanding through language.
A Milestone in Language, Unity, and Inclusivity
The recognition by ASEAN Records celebrates more than numerical achievement — it honours Kunkwan’s visionary commitment to making Mandarin accessible to non-Chinese learners from all walks of life.
Since its founding in 2014, Kunkwan International Mandarin Training Centre has transformed the learning experience for over 442,000 non-Chinese adults, providing a welcoming platform where language becomes a bridge, not a barrier.
By cultivating inclusive classrooms online and on-ground, Kunkwan has created a vibrant learning community that brings together diverse ethnicities, cultures, and aspirations across Southeast Asia — united by a shared desire to connect, understand, and grow.
“Language taught me that understanding conquers fear — and when we learn to know one another, love naturally follows.” said by Kent Ng Kun Kwan, author of “Tak Kenal Maka Tak Cinta”(“You Don’t Know, So You Don’t Love”)
A Vision of Cultural Harmony Through Language
The impact of Kunkwan’s work goes beyond traditional education. It reflects a deep-rooted mission to create mutual respect among ASEAN communities through language empowerment, cultural empathy, and lifelong learning.
Through its innovative and accessible online Mandarin learning model, Kunkwan has redefined what it means to teach a language in the 21st century:
Interactive digital platforms accessible from anywhere
Culturally adaptive instructors trained to engage diverse learners
Courses tailored for professional, personal, and social use
A vibrant learning network of students from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, and beyond
This inclusive ecosystem allows adults — even those without prior exposure to Mandarin — to thrive in a supportive, encouraging environment, free from fear or judgment.
Redefining the Purpose of Language Education
As a regional pioneer in Mandarin language instruction, Kunkwan’s success lies not only in student numbers, but in transforming perceptions. By empowering non-Chinese individuals to embrace Mandarin, it dismantles stereotypes, breaks down barriers, and fosters harmony across multicultural societies.
This achievement is not merely a record — it’s a movement. One that repositions language as a unifier, and not a divider. One that promotes the belief that anyone, regardless of background, can learn and love a new language when taught with patience, empathy, and purpose.
About Kunkwan International Mandarin Training Centre
Kunkwan International Mandarin Training Centre is one of Southeast Asia’s leading Mandarin education providers, specialising in accessible, technology-driven learning for adult students. Founded in Malaysia, Kunkwan has grown into a regional movement — enabling over 442,652 non-Chinese learners to embrace Mandarin with confidence and clarity.
With a mission to promote understanding through language, Kunkwan continues to set new standards in linguistic inclusivity, cultural harmony, and education innovation. To learn more about Kunkwan’s programs, visit: www.kunkwan.com(or replace with relevant site if different)
Nextgreen Global, Malaysia’s trailblazer in green industrial innovation, has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the milestone: First Integrated Oil Palm Biomass Processing Hub Since 2022
The official ASEAN Records certificate was proudly presented to Dr. Kelly Lim Kah Yen, Executive Director of Nextgreen Global, during a ceremony held at the company’s flagship Green Technology Park (GTP) in Pekan, Pahang. The event was witnessed by YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, reflecting the national importance of sustainable circular solutions.
“This record validates our long-term commitment to green infrastructure and our vision to lead ASEAN’s transition into a truly circular and sustainable economy,” said Dr. Kelly Lim. “We are proud to pioneer a solution that brings together industrial efficiency, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic development.”
Pioneering an ASEAN-first Biomass Hub
This record recognises the development and successful operation of the Green Technology Park as the first fully integrated biomass processing facility in ASEAN. Since 2022, the hub has functioned as a centralised, scalable ecosystem capable of converting large volumes of palm oil industry waste into multiple value-added products.
These include:
EFB pulp and paper
Biodegradable packaging materials
Organic fertiliser and agrofeed
Treated liquid waste repurposed as agricultural nutrients
Renewable energy from biomass fuel
More than just a plant, the GTP serves as a national demonstration model for circular economy implementation, designed to be replicated across other industrial zones in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
About Nextgreen Global
Nextgreen Global is listed on Bursa Malaysia and stands at the forefront of sustainable industrial transformation. With its focus on clean technologies and closed-loop production systems, the company aims to maximise theeconomic value of oil palm biomass while minimising environmental harm.
Nextgreen’s Green Technology Park is a flagship initiative to showcase how waste from Malaysia’s largest commodity sector can be transformed into renewable resources that drive growth, innovation, and ESG leadership across ASEAN. For more information, visit: https://www.nextgreenglobal.com
Nextgreen Global, a Malaysian pioneer in sustainable industrial development, has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the milestone: First Green Technology Park Adopting Circular Economy Model with Patented Technology to Convert Oil Palm Biomass into EFB Pulp and Paper
The official ASEAN Records certificate was proudly presented to Dato’ Lim Thiam Huat, Managing Director of Nextgreen Global, during a recognition ceremony at the company’s flagship Green Technology Park (GTP) in Pekan, Pahang. The presentation was witnessed by YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, in recognition of the importance of sustainable innovation to Malaysia’s future economy.
A Breakthrough in Circular Green Technology
This record was achieved through Nextgreen’s breakthrough approach to creating a fully integrated, zero-waste industrial ecosystem. The Green Technology Park utilises a patented process to convert palm oil waste—specifically empty fruit bunches (EFB)—into eco-labelled pulp and paper, contributing to both national ESG goals and reducing reliance on imported materials.
The GTP’s production flow is rooted in circular economy principles. In addition to pulp and paper, the plant produces organic fertilisers and renewable energy from the residual by-products of the EFB conversion process—ensuring nothing goes to waste.
“This achievement is a national milestone that proves sustainability can go hand-in-hand with innovation and profitability,” said Dato’ Lim Thiam Huat. “We thank ASEAN Records for this recognition, and we hope to replicate this model across ASEAN to support the region’s transition toward sustainable industrialisation.”
About Nextgreen Global
Nextgreen Global is a Bursa Malaysia-listed leader in green technology and sustainable development. The company is committed to transforming Malaysia’s palm oil biomass into high-value products such as:
Eco-friendly pulp and paper
Biodegradable packaging
Organic fertilisers and agrofeed
Renewable energy from biomass
Through its Green Technology Park and patented zero-waste production systems, Nextgreen aims to reduce environmental pollution, support rural economies, and build a replicable model for sustainable industry. For more information, visit: https://www.nextgreenglobal.com
SME Venture@ASEAN Malaysia 2025, the country’s flagship small and medium enterprise trade and innovation summit, officially organised by SME Corporation Malaysia (SME Corp. Malaysia), has been formally recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving a groundbreaking regional milestone: “Largest ASEAN SME Trade Event 2025″ (Featuring 370 exhibitors across B2B and B2C sectors, 300 structured business matching sessions, 8 multi-forum activities, and over 10,000 trade and public visitors expected)
The ASEAN Records recognition was presented during the opening of this high-impact trade event, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). The summit celebrated the collaborative spirit, innovation capacity, and market connectivity that define ASEAN’s small and medium enterprise ecosystem.
The official award ceremony was officiated by YAB Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, alongside YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives. Their presence reflected Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to championing SMEs as the engine of inclusive economic development in the region.
The ceremony was also attended by senior federal and state government officials, trade attachés, business councils, SME leaders, and regional stakeholders from across Southeast Asia.
A Milestone in ASEAN Entrepreneurship and Trade Collaboration
SME Venture@ASEAN Malaysia 2025 has emerged as one of the most vibrant, forward-thinking, and inclusive trade platforms in ASEAN — gathering the full spectrum of stakeholders across business, finance, policy, and innovation to connect, collaborate, and catalyse cross-border growth.
The record-setting summit featured:
370 exhibitors spanning high-impact industries including smart manufacturing, digital technology, halal trade, agribusiness, fintech, green solutions, creative economy, and more
300 business matching sessions, enabling dynamic deal-making and investment conversations between SMEs, buyers, investors, and ecosystem enablers
8 multi-forum activities, hosting policy panels and industry thought leaders across strategic topics such as digital transformation, SME financing, supply chain readiness, regional branding, and integration into ASEAN economic corridors
With over 10,000 visitors expected, the event created a dynamic environment for market exposure, investor discovery, partnership activation, and regional networking — reaffirming the role of SMEs as ASEAN’s economic backbone.
Empowering SMEs for the Future of ASEAN
Beyond its commercial scale, SME Venture@ASEAN Malaysia 2025 served as a blueprint for the future of entrepreneurship in Southeast Asia. It brought together forward-looking enterprises, family businesses, and high-growth startups in a collaborative environment where ideas, innovation, and investment intersect.
Through a combination of immersive showcases, business clinics, expert-led forums, and curated networking zones, the summit empowered SMEs with the insights, tools, and connections necessary to navigate the challenges of digitalisation, sustainability, and regional integration.
“This would serve as a regional drive to connect entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators throughout ASEAN, especially in high-potential sectors such as high technology, halal trade, and digital services,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in his opening address. “Let this movement become the heartbeat of our regional economy — a catalyst that empowers our people, strengthens our resilience, and propels ASEAN into the next frontier of growth.”
ASEAN Records Recognition: A Symbol of Impact and Legacy
The ASEAN Records recognition represents a defining milestone for SME Corp. Malaysia and its partners — affirming the summit’s position as the largest and most impactful SME-focused event in the ASEAN region for 2025.
It acknowledges not only the scale of the initiative but also its deeper mission to cultivate a resilient, innovative, and future-proof SME ecosystem for ASEAN and beyond.
This recognition symbolises the collaborative vision of ASEAN stakeholders in building a borderless business community that promotes shared prosperity and economic equity through entrepreneurship.
A Stronger ASEAN Begins With Empowered SMEs
As ASEAN continues to prioritise digital economy integration, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and inclusive regional trade, events like SME Venture@ASEAN Malaysia 2025 serve as essential drivers of progress. They empower entrepreneurs to build scalable, competitive businesses while contributing to national and regional development goals.
This official recognition will be proudly recorded in the ASEAN Records archives as a testament to Malaysia’s leadership in SME development and its ongoing commitment to shaping a vibrant, high-impact, and innovation-driven ASEAN economy. For more information about SME Venture@ASEAN Malaysia 2025 events, visit: https://smeventure.com.my
The ML Kitchen (麻辣诱惑), a celebrated homegrown Mala restaurant chain in Malaysia, has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the milestone: Most Mala-Based Items Sold by a Direct-Owned Home-Grown Mala Restaurant Chain Since 2018(Approx. 1,520,000 items sold, generating RM27.36 million in revenue across 9 outlets)
The official ASEAN Records certificate was proudly presented to Ms. Wu Yu Lian, Founder of The ML Kitchen, and Mr. Puah Chuan Hock, Owner and Managing Director, during the opening ceremony of the brand’s latest 9th outlet at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus.
From China to Malaysia: A Family-Built Mala Legacy
Originally from China, Wu Yu Lian and her sister relocated to Malaysia more than a decade ago to support their children’s education. Surrounded by Malaysia’s rich food heritage, they found inspiration to blend their culinary roots with the country’s multicultural flavours.
For eight years, the sisters quietly honed their recipes — experimenting with spice levels, broths, and textures to perfect a menu that would resonate with both Chinese expats and local diners. In 2018, their journey culminated in the launch of the first 麻辣诱惑 (ML Kitchen) outlet in Wangsa Maju, Kuala Lumpur.
The response was overwhelming. Word-of-mouth quickly spread, and digital buzz helped the brand grow rapidly within its first two years. Today, The ML Kitchen operates nine direct-owned outlets, with a dedicated following that spans students, families, professionals, and food lovers from all walks of life.
“This record means a lot to me and our team. It’s a reflection of the love and loyalty of our customers over the years,” said Wu Yu Lian. “We promise to stay true to our roots — using real ingredients, no shortcuts, and keeping the authentic flavours alive.”
Why The ML Kitchen Stands Out in a Competitive Market
In an industry often dominated by shortcuts and pre-mixes, The ML Kitchen stays true to the soul of its cuisine by upholding a strict commitment to freshness and integrity in every dish. Here’s what sets them apart:
– Authentic slow-boiled bone broth for true depth of flavour
– No pre-packaged or “synthetic” ingredients
– No pre-cooked food — every order is fresh and made-to-order
– Commitment to food safety and quality for all members and guests
This philosophy, rooted in the brand’s belief in “real food, real care,” has not only driven customer loyalty, but also carved out a distinct space for The ML Kitchen as a premium Mala dining experience in Malaysia.
A New Milestone in ASEAN’s Culinary Landscape
Crossing the milestone of 1.52 million Mala-based items sold is more than a commercial achievement — it’s a cultural moment. With its official induction into the ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition, The ML Kitchen now joins the ranks of regional F&B pioneers who are elevating Southeast Asia’s culinary identity through innovation, authenticity, and passion.
This achievement solidifies The ML Kitchen’s role in bringing Mala cuisine into Malaysia’s mainstream food culture, introducing the bold, spicy, and numbing profile of Sichuan flavours to a wider audience while adapting them with local sensibilities.
The recognition celebrates not just business success, but The ML Kitchen’s deeper contribution to ASEAN’s multicultural food evolution.
Visit The ML Kitchen: Where Real Mala Lives
With 9 locations across Malaysia and counting, The ML Kitchen (麻辣诱惑) continues to grow while staying true to the core principles that made it a success: authentic recipes, fresh ingredients, and a passion for people and flavour.
Whether you’re new to Mala or a lifelong fan, visit one of their outlets to experience why The ML Kitchen has become Malaysia’s go-to name for soulful, satisfying, and truly unforgettable Mala. For more information and outlet locations.
