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Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Clubbing without alcohol in bright daylight: What is ‘coffee rave', the new music and cafe trend brewing in KL?
KUALA LUMPUR, June 1— There's a new party trend making waves across town — you go clubbing to dance music, but not at night... and certainly there is no alcohol involved. Get your latte on and join in these 'coffee raves'. Imagine a nightclub with a DJ and upbeat music, but with a twist. Instead of alcohol and a late-night setting, it features a variety of coffee drinks and takes place in the morning, which could begin at 7am or 10am, depending on the organisers. The DJ is still there, spinning upbeat tracks, but the atmosphere is all about starting your day energised, fuelled by caffeine and good vibes. It can also be a good opportunity for anyone to network and socialise. The events are inclusive and family-friendly, welcoming everyone from young families to couples on a first date. 'Coffee raves' provide good networking opportunities.. minus the hangover. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa What's best is that raves end early, so you can still go for brunch, run errands, or relax afterwards, all without a hangover. Though it's called a coffee rave, it's not always just about coffee — many venues are happy to serve other drinks upon request. Still, that's not the case everywhere, as some locations stick to the purist approach: at a coffee rave, it's coffee and nothing else. As club snacks typically involve finger foods, at a coffee rave, you can expect dishes such as pastries and cookies instead. Which morning person came up with this idea anyway? The trend began to grow in popularity across Europe and Australia, particularly in Brisbane and Melbourne. Looking through the internet, it has also made waves around the US and across India, such as Mumbai and Delhi. More recently, Singapore hosted its own version at a venue called Beats & Beans. The outlet most recently celebrated its first anniversary on May 24, with a party which started at 2pm. The venue flew over producer Y3LLO from Yangon, Myanmar and featured local DJs Joon and Ling, who had performed at their first ever coffee rave. The trend has since spread to Malaysia, where many cafés are now looking to bring the experience nationwide. When and why is the trend growing in Malaysia? While clubs and bars remained a popular go-to spot for Malaysians to unwind throughout the 2010s, the coffee rave trend was still in its early stages, and only recently has it begun to gain traction nationwide. 'I think it's partly because people are always looking for new, fun ways to socialise and the idea of mixing music, dancing, and coffee just hits differently,' said Priscilla Lee, 39, organiser from UP KL for their event yesterday. Lee added that though the trend started in Europe and Australia, Malaysians are making it their own version. 'It's not just copying the West, it's adapting it to our local culture and energy,' Lee added. Will the 'coffee rave' trend in Malaysia like in Australia, India, Europe and the US or will it fizzle out is too early to say at the moment. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa However, according to Lee, these have mostly been smaller pop-up events and occasional café parties. 'Some were more like early morning yoga and dance events with coffee after, while others leaned into the music scene a bit more.' Lee noted that she believes UP KL's event stands out because it brings more structure and energy to the overall concept, setting a new standard for how such events can be done locally. What's special is the vibe, it's like a proper party, but in the morning, which Lee describes as a mix of amazing coffee, feel-good music, people dancing, and everyone simply being in the moment. 'It's a chance to start your day with high energy and connect with others in a super positive way,' Lee added. The event at UP KL is especially meaningful because it involves a collaboration with one of their favourite cafés, and Kenny Hills Coffee Roasters is also taking part. 'We couldn't be more excited,' she said.
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Morning music and mocha vibes: KL's arguably first coffee rave redefines clubbing culture without the booze
KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 — Julia, 30, would sometimes stay up all night for a party — but yesterday morning she decided to try something different. Instead of dressing up, she was just wearing a white top and yoga pants. The music was still bumping, but caffeine took the place of cocktails. 'What I really love about this event is that it takes place in the morning,' she told Malay Mail, a cup in her right hand while she swayed to the DJ. Meanwhile, Hershey, 29, who shared a table with her, said it was something different from what she had experienced before. Dance music and coffee together may not be a common combo, but felt just as refreshing, she said — similarly clad in casual top and cardigan. Julia (white shirt) and Hershey (left) drinking coffee and having a great time during the coffee rave event at UP Kuala Lumpur on May 31,2025. Picture by Yusof Mat Isa A mellow morning high: Coffee, cardio and community The duo were among dozens who turned at UP KL for what could be the first of a major 'coffee rave' in Kuala Lumpur — a twist on clubbing that starts early in the day, with a vibe that is more chill. First spotted across Europe and Australia — particularly in Brisbane and Melbourne — coffee raves seem to have picked up pace in India and neighbouring Singapore, where the venue Beats & Beans just celebrated its anniversary earlier this month. Yesterday, the crowd started filling in the first-floor café at 10am. Sunlight poured through the glass as espresso machines hissed and bass lines pulsed softly through the café's walls. In one corner, Paul Bobrowski — better known as DJ Pauly B — was cueing up uptempo beats on his deck. In the other, a barista was pouring up cups after cups from the espresso machine. 'We are definitely not the first, and hopefully we are not the last, and I feel like this is something we would like to create for the community for people to have more things to do during the day,' said Priscilla Lee, 39, organiser of UP KL for the event, in collaboration with the renowned Kenny Hills Coffee Roasters. 'For example, after you work out, you can come over, enjoy some music, and have some coffee or a pastry, which I think is a very good and positive thing to have.' 'I believe it's a first-time experience for many, and I see many people are in a good mood,' said Boborowski, as he spun records ranging from Afro house, funky house, to minimal techno. He noted that while nightclubs usually only pick up the pace later at night, the coffee rave had kicked off early. 'It's better for my sleep schedule,' he told Malay Mail, jokingly. A man prepares coffee during the coffee rave event at UP Kuala Lumpur on May 31,2025. Picture by Yusof Mat Isa Still brewing: Can Malaysia vibe with daytime raves? Attendees were thrilled by the fresh concept, but admitted that it is still early days for coffee raves in Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. 'It's not common to have a DJ and a clubbing-style concept combined in this way — it's something quite new here,' said Jun, 21. He admitted that now people from all backgrounds could experience the clubbing culture, in a way that is not necessarily tied to alcohol. Lee said she hopes for more coffee rave events under UP KL in the future, and aims to partner with more cafés to bring the experience to Malaysians again. 'Whether this happens will depend on the success of the inaugural experience,' she said. Cincin, 24, felt that the environment was relaxed and welcoming, noting that everyone seemed free to communicate openly, which made the atmosphere especially pleasant. What stood out most for her was the vibe created by the DJ and music. 'Nowadays, many people are feeling stressed. If I come here on the weekend, I feel like I can let that stress go,' she said. Whether Malaysians will trade tequila shots for triple shots remains to be seen — but for now, this party's just getting started.
Daily Express
14-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Tengku Zafrul in South Korea for Apec summit, reaffirms commitment to multilateral trade system
Published on: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 Published on: Wed, May 14, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Aziz is leading Malaysia's delegation to Jeju, South Korea as trade ministers from the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) are gathered for the 31st meeting. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa JEJU: Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz is leading Malaysia's delegation to Jeju, South Korea as trade ministers from the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) are gathered for the 31st meeting. The two-day APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting, starting on May 15, takes place at a critical juncture marked by persistent global economic uncertainty, ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States by various countries, cross-border barriers, and a rapidly evolving economic landscape. While focusing on the host country's priority areas, namely artificial intelligence (AI) and demographic challenges, member economies are also expected to reaffirm the importance of a robust and inclusive multilateral trading system. In a statement released ahead of the working trip to Jeju, MITI said that, given the current global trading challenges, Malaysia will utilise the APEC platform to reaffirm its strong commitment to a transparent, rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) at its core. This is in alignment with South Korea's thematic priorities: Connectivity through the Multilateral Trading System, AI Innovation for Trade Facilitation and Prosperity through Sustainable Trade, said MITI. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Committee on Trade and Investment and the Investment Experts' Group had said that APEC member economies have expressed collective support for the Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement, calling for its integration into the WTO legal framework. The agreement aims to improve transparency, streamline procedures and create a more predictable environment for investors, particularly in developing economies. Meeting in Jeju during the Second APEC Senior Officials' Meeting and Related Meetings, the Committee issued a joint statement encouraging broader participation in the IFD Agreement and its incorporation into the WTO legal framework. 'The IFD Agreement has significant potential to improve the investment and business climate across the world, reducing the cost of investment and making it easier for investors in all sectors to operate, expand and contribute to economic growth,' said APEC Trade and Investment Committee chair Christopher Tan. 'Incorporating the IFD Agreement into the WTO framework would be a major step forward for global trade and investment, and a win for the region,' he emphasised. He noted that the IFD Agreement will contribute to the Putrajaya Vision 2040's goal of delivering a transparent and predictable trade and investment environment in the Asia Pacific Region, and further the region's interest to attract and sustain investment. 'Malaysia remains committed to working closely with the APEC economies to ensure that sustainability, innovation, and open trade are reinforcing and beneficial to all economies, as the region moves towards a more resilient, inclusive and future-ready Asia-Pacific,' Tengku Zafrul had said. On the sidelines of the MRT, the Minister is expected to meet the United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and WTO Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. He is also expected to hold a bilateral meeting with South Korea's Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, Inkyo Cheong, to further discuss the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries. Malaysia and South Korea agreed to resume FTA negotiations in March 2024. Besides these, Tengku Zafrul is also scheduled to meet Australia's Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell, and Japan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Takumi Miyaji. An Informal Ministerial Meeting on the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) will also take place on the sidelines of the MRT meeting. The 31st APEC MRT Meeting will be chaired by South Korea's Inkyo Cheong, and as host of APEC 2025, South Korea has chosen the theme 'Building a Sustainable Future: Connect. Innovate. Prosper'. APEC is an inter-governmental forum for 21 member economies in the Pacific Rim that promotes free trade throughout the Asia-Pacific region, representing nearly 40 per cent of the world's population, almost half of global trade and over 60 per cent of the global economy. Malaysia is among the 12 founding members of APEC. The others are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United States, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mexico and Papua New Guinea joined in 1993. Chile acceded in 1994, and in 1998, Peru, Russia and Vietnam joined, bringing the full membership to 21. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
02-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Jempol, Silam, Selayang PKR hold re-elections amid cheating claims, disqualifications; new winners announced
Published on: Friday, May 02, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 02, 2025 By: Malay Mail Text Size: PKR held fresh elections for several divisions on May 1, 2025 following allegations of cheating and rule-breaking issues. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa Kuala Lumpur: Rawang assemblyman Chua Wei Kiat has won the Selayang PKR division re-election, held following complaints of rule-breaking and other poll woes earlier. He received 1,945 votes, which was more than the 1,648 he got in the earlier election on April 12 that was later cancelled. Chua's win gave him a 252-vote lead over his opponent, Wan Ibnul Bahar Wan Ismail. One of the original three candidates in Selayang was disqualified before the re-election. In Jempol, Manivanan Gowin, who works as a political secretary in the PKR presidential office, also won in his division. He got 571 votes, beating his rivals Asri Abdullah and Mariappan Kattaiyan, who received 229 and 39 votes. Similar to the Rawang case, the previous winner who garnered 450 votes, was disqualified. In Silam, the winners for division chief and youth chief Romansa Lamin and Firdaus Chairlie respectively, did not change after the re-election. These re-elections were held because of problems and rule-breaking in the earlier votes. One candidate, Syafiq Iqhmal Saharudin, said his name was wrongly marked as 'withdrawn' during the online voting, but news portal Malaysiakini reported last night that re-elections in Selayang and Silam were needed because some candidates had criminal records, citing an unnamed source. In Jempol, re-election happened because a candidate named Azizah Salim Shah was found to have changed political parties, switching over to Pejuang. Re-elections also took place yesterday in Pasir Salak, Besut (for the Women's chief), and Semporna. Earlier PKR division elections, held between April 11 and 20, had many complaints about cheating and voting issues. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
02-05-2025
- Daily Express
Authorities detain trio for illegal iron ore mining in Pahang forest reserve, seize RM1.25 million machinery
Published on: Friday, May 02, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 02, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Three men were arrested for suspected illegal iron ore mining at Sungai Ganoh in the Bukit Ibam Forest Reserve, Pahang, during a 3am raid last Tuesday. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa KUANTAN: Three men, including two Bangladeshi nationals, were arrested for suspected illegal iron ore mining at Sungai Ganoh in the Bukit Ibam Forest Reserve, Muadzam Shah, last Tuesday. The arrests were made around 3am during a joint operation by the General Operations Force (GOF) 7th Battalion and the Pahang State Enforcement Unit, known as Op Bersepadu Khazanah. According to a statement by the GOF Southeast Brigade, checks revealed that the mining site was operated by a local man, along with two Bangladeshis. The site owner could not produce a valid mining licence, while the two foreigners had no valid identification documents. All three men, aged between 40 and 50, were detained. Authorities also seized equipment and machinery worth about RM1.25 million. The case is being investigated under the State Mineral Enactment 2001 and the Immigration Act 1959/63. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
