Kuala Lumpur’s very own bartender Jason Dennis Dcruz competed against 13 elite bartenders from around the world to win the 2024 Heineken Global Draught Championship in Amsterdam, Netherlands recently.
With a flawless performance that combined precision and passion, Jason of The Olive Tree Group claimed the coveted title, bringing the championship crown back to Malaysia.
“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and proud to have represented the region on the global stage.
“This win is not just mine. It is a reflection of everyone who supported me through the Star Academy programme,” said a jubilant Jason.
The Olive Tree Group owns and operates 28 restaurants and bars spanning across seven states in Malaysia and two countries.
Supported by his training at the Star Academy programme, Jason’s victory makes history as the second Malaysian to win the championship title at the Home of Heineken in Amsterdam.
Jason said he has learned many valuable lessons during competitions. He saw every challenge as an opportunity for him to grow and to challenge himself.
“The journey was not easy, but every challenge taught me something invaluable.
“From the regional training sessions all the way to the national finals, I was able to learn so much from my peers and mentors along the way.
“Each step pushed me to grow, both as a bartender and as an individual,” he said.
The prestigious competition, part of Heineken’s renowned Star Quality programme, brought together the world’s finest bartenders to showcase their mastery in the art of the perfect pour.
Jason first started his journey as a waiter in 2017. Over the years, he climbed the ranks to become assistant group bar manager at The Olive Tree Group.
Driven by his appreciation for the craft, Jason joined Heineken Malaysia’s Star Academy Programme earlier this year. In September, Jason earned the National Champion title, outshining over 1,300 bartenders from across Malaysia.
The victory secured his spot at the Heineken Global Draught Championship in Amsterdam.
Martijn van Keulen, the managing director of Heineken Malaysia said, “At Heineken Malaysia, we see the incredible potential in the local hospitality industry and are committed to nurturing and developing talent through our Star Academy programme.
“We are also grateful to our trade partners for their crucial support in making this programme a success.
“Indeed, Jason’s remarkable achievement demonstrates the high standards and exceptional skills present in the country’s hospitality industry. His dedication to the craft is an inspiration to us all.”
Leslie Gomez, the managing director of The Olive Tree Group congratulated Jason on his outstanding achievement of winning the championship.
“His dedication and passion really show how much talent is growing in Malaysia’s bartending scene,” he said.
The annual Star Academy programme covers Heineken Malaysia’s full portfolio of brands, teaching the art of the perfect pour while emphasising technical precision, responsible serving module and customer engagement.
Over the years, the programme has trained more than 10,000 bartenders nationwide. Through rigorous training and mentorship for about three months, bartenders are prepared to excel under pressure.
With Jason’s success, Heineken Malaysia’s annual Star Academy programme continues to offer bartenders a platform to refine their skills, expand their product knowledge and advance in the industry.
