Baristas showcase talent, creativity at Borneo latte art challenge
Lim focuses intently as he pours his award-winning 'Shiba Inu' latte art during a segment of the competition. — Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad
KUCHING (June 17): The scent of freshly-brewed coffee hung thick in the air as steam hissed, pitchers swirled, and nerves buzzed at KTS Garden – the stage for the Borneo Latte Art Competition (BLAC2025).
Held as part of the 'Tapas Competition, Exhibition and Seminar 2025' programme, the event saw a diverse mix of talents: 12 baristas from Kuching, three from Miri, five from Brunei, and one each from Sibu and Kuala Lumpur.
Each barista had just three minutes to create their latte art, impressing judges who scored them on six critical elements: image production, visual foam quality, contrast and harmony, pattern size and placement, creativity and complexity, plus technical execution.
Baristas gave their all as they poured intricate designs into each cup, carefully placing them on judging trays – every line crisp, every contrast striking.
The crowd held its breath between pours, tension broken only by murmurs of awe and the emcee's countdown echoing through the hall.
After multiple intense rounds, the Top 3 contestants were announced – all from Kuching.
Marvin Lim, 21, a student, stole the spotlight with his bold and expressive 'Shiba Inu' latte art, earning him the champion title. barista Borneo Latte Art Competition coffee KTS Garden lead
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