MILAN, Oct. 23 -- When Jason Loo stepped up to the gleaming stage at the World Barista Championship 2025 in Milan, he carried more than beans and espresso machines-he carried Malaysia's hopes.

Having previously secured four national titles (2013, 2015, 2017 and 2024) at the Malaysia Barista Championship, he now brought home a staggering 4th-place finish: the highest ever for a Malaysian competitor.

It was a moment that felt both long in the making and utterly inevitable.

The years of refining technique, experimenting with flavour, and telling stories through coffee had coalesced on one stage.

As Jason reflects, "It still feels surreal. Standing on that stage representing Malaysia was truly special. I'm proud of how far we've come as a...