Malaysia is officially hosting the Grand Finals of the 2026 World Young Barista Championship (WYBC), marking the first time our country is hosting the grand finals of a global coffee competition.
Not only that, but Malaysia has also been given the honour of being the competition’s first host country outside of South Korea. Prior to this, in 2024, Malaysia participated in the competition for the first time and won 3rd place!
The top 30 from around the world will compete in Malaysia!
“At the WYBC 2026 Grand Finals, we expect around 30 participants from across the globe, bringing together the next generation of baristas, innovators and coffee ambassadors in one international platform.”
How Malaysia got the role
KiS Coffee Co. co-founder Michael Tan, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Acts29 Chairman, Mr Paul, for a cooperation to successfully host the 2026 WYBC.
Speaking to WORLD OF BUZZ, Michael explained that the WYBC is meant to empower the next generation of baristas.
“We are incredibly proud that Malaysia has been selected as the first international country to host the WYBC Grand Finals in Q4 2026. This will also mark Malaysia’s first time hosting the grand finals of an international coffee competition, where over 20 countries’ top young baristas will gather to compete for the title,” he said.
“It’s truly an exciting time for the coffee community in Malaysia!”
What does this mean for Malaysia?
Michael shared how this shows the world that Malaysia has the passion, depth, and capability to host an international event.
“Hosting the WYBC 2026 Grand Finals in Malaysia is a powerful milestone for our coffee community. It signals that Malaysia is no longer just a growing scene, we are now a recognised global hub for talent, creativity, and speciality coffee culture,”
“For the first time, international champions from across continents will gather on Malaysian soil.”
Michael will be shortlisting baristas from all over the region to compete in the WYBC Grand Finals in Malaysia, based on taste, technique, presentation, cleanliness and beverage creativity.
Those interested in applying for the competition can do so here.
What do you think about this? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
