Buying Beer In Malaysia: Where To Go?

Malaysia's beer market is largely dominated by imported beers from neighbouring countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. However, in recent years, local craft beer brands like PaperKite have emerged and even won international awards. With the rise in demand for alcohol delivery services, many online retailers now offer a wide range of beer options for consumers in Malaysia, providing convenience and flexibility in ordering and payment methods.

Online beer shops

There are several online shops in Malaysia that sell beer. Here is a list of some of the top online beer shops in the country:

Farmer's Bar

Farmer's Bar is Malaysia's first online craft beer store. They offer a range of unique beers made with locally grown ingredients, including bold, dark, barrel-aged beers and sour wheat beers. Farmer's Bar provides same-day delivery in Klang Valley and Kuala Lumpur for orders placed before 8:30 pm, with free shipping for orders above RM150. They accept various payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, GrabPay, Boost, Touch'nGo, Fave, and PayPal.

ELuen Heng

ELuen Heng is a leading online beer, wine, and spirit delivery service in Malaysia. They offer a wide selection of beers, including international brands such as Budweiser, Hoegaarden, Stella Artois, and Erdinger. You can find various package options on their website, such as bottles, cans, and gift boxes. eLuen Heng provides flexible ordering and payment methods, making it convenient for customers to purchase their favourite beers.

Luen Heng

Luen Heng is another reputable online alcohol delivery service in Malaysia. They are a leading supplier of alcoholic beverages in East and West Malaysia, partnering with global brands in the beer, wine, and spirits category. Luen Heng offers craft beers from around the world, including Becks, Kronenbourg, Budweiser, Erdinger, and Hoegaarden. They also provide convenient delivery options, ensuring your favourite drinks are delivered right to your doorstep.

These online beer shops offer a diverse range of beers, from local crafts to international favourites, making it convenient for Malaysians to purchase their desired beverages from the comfort of their homes.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets

Beer in Malaysia is predominantly available in supermarkets and hypermarkets, with a wide range of options to choose from. These stores offer a convenient way to purchase beer and other alcoholic beverages alongside your regular grocery shopping. The beer selection in supermarkets and hypermarkets typically includes a mix of local and imported brands, catering to different preferences and budgets.

When it comes to supermarkets and hypermarkets in Malaysia, there are several well-known options where you can find a good selection of beer. While the specific brands and prices may vary across different outlets and regions, you can generally expect to find a range of popular beer choices. Some of the commonly found beer brands in these stores include:

• Carlsberg
• Guinness
• Heineken
• Anchor Smooth
• Kronenbourg
• Budweiser
• Erdinger
• Hoegaarden
• Tiger Beer

These supermarkets and hypermarkets often stock a variety of package sizes, ranging from single bottles or cans to larger packs of 4, 6, or 24 units. This allows customers to purchase beer in quantities that suit their needs, whether it's for a small get-together or a large event.

In addition to the physical stores, some supermarkets and hypermarkets in Malaysia may also offer online shopping and delivery services for beer and other alcoholic beverages. This provides an even more convenient option for those who prefer to have their groceries and drinks delivered straight to their doorstep. It is always a good idea to check the websites or applications of these retailers to explore their beer selections and take advantage of any ongoing promotions or discounts they may offer.

Overall, supermarkets and hypermarkets in Malaysia provide a convenient and accessible option for purchasing beer. With a range of brands, package sizes, and prices available, these stores cater to a diverse range of customers, making them a go-to choice for many beer enthusiasts in the country.

Convenience stores

If you're looking for a quick beer run, convenience stores are your best bet. In Malaysia, convenience stores are easily accessible and offer a wide range of beer options to suit your preferences. Here's what you need to know about buying beer from convenience stores:

Range of Options

Location and Accessibility

One of the biggest advantages of convenience stores is their location and operating hours. In Malaysia, 7-Eleven is one of the most popular convenience store chains, with outlets spread across the country. You can easily find a 7-Eleven store in urban areas, suburban neighbourhoods, and even in smaller towns. Other convenience store brands like 99 Speedmart and myNews.com also have a wide presence in Malaysia, giving you multiple options for your beer purchase. These stores usually operate late into the night, making them a convenient option if you're running low on drinks during a gathering or party.

Small Quantities and Individual Purchases

Additional Snacks and Pairings

Other Benefits

So, the next time you're in need of a cold one, remember that your neighbourhood convenience store has got you covered!

Bars and clubs

Malaysia's vibrant bar and club scene offers a diverse range of drinking experiences, from lively pubs to sleek cocktail lounges. Here's a guide to help you navigate the best spots to enjoy a cold beer or a crafted cocktail.

Pub Culture

Malaysia's pub culture offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere for patrons to unwind and socialise. Pubs are typically characterised by a lively ambiance, with music, televisions screening sports events, and a diverse crowd. You can find pubs scattered across major cities, offering a wide selection of beers on tap, including local and international brands. These establishments often have daily promotions and happy hour deals, making them an affordable option for a night out.

Craft Beer Bars

In recent years, Malaysia has witnessed a burgeoning craft beer movement, with local breweries gaining traction among beer enthusiasts. Craft beer bars have emerged as hotspots for those seeking unique and flavourful brews. These bars often showcase an extensive selection of local and imported craft beers, ranging from IPAs and stouts to fruity ales and experimental brews. Many of these establishments have knowledgeable staff who are passionate about beer and can guide patrons through their ever-changing tap lists.

Cocktail Lounges

For those seeking a more sophisticated drinking experience, Malaysia boasts an array of elegant cocktail lounges. These venues are known for their mixology prowess, crafting innovative cocktails using fresh ingredients and premium spirits. Whether you're in the mood for a classic martini or a twist on a traditional cocktail, these lounges offer something for every palate. Cocktail lounges often feature sophisticated interiors, ambient lighting, and, in some cases, live music or DJ performances, creating an ideal setting for a refined evening.

Nightclubs

If you're looking to dance the night away, Malaysia's nightclubs offer a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. These venues typically feature renowned DJs or live bands, attracting a youthful and lively crowd. While nightclubs are known for their vibrant dance floors, they also offer ample seating and bar areas where patrons can socialise and enjoy a drink. From sleek, upscale clubs to more intimate, underground venues, Malaysia's nightclub scene caters to a variety of musical tastes and lifestyles.

Tourist Bars

Tourist bars in Malaysia cater to a diverse range of travellers and expats, offering a familiar drinking environment for those far from home. These establishments often feature theme nights, live music, and promotions to attract a steady stream of patrons. Tourist bars typically have extensive drink menus, including local and imported beers, spirits, and cocktails. They provide a great setting for socialising and meeting fellow travellers from around the world.

PaperKite, Malaysia's first craft beer brand

PaperKite Brewing Co is Malaysia's first craft beer brand, launched on 5 February 2023. The brand embodies the spirit of "Go Fly Kite", a phrase used to express defiance. PaperKite defied the naysayers of local craft beer, those who doubted that Malaysia could produce exceptional craft beer that could be recognised on the global stage.

The brewery's first releases were a Copper Ale, an Oatmeal Stout, and an IPA. The first batch of Copper Ale and Stout sold out immediately. PaperKite's core range now includes an Oatmeal Stout, a Copper Ale, a Pale Ale, and an IPA, in addition to seasonal offerings such as a Hoppy Lager.

PaperKite's philosophy is to focus on Malaysian ingredients and styles that appeal to local drinkers, who usually rely on imported craft beers. The brewery aims to incorporate Malaysian-grown products, such as pineapple, cocoa, and local herbs and spices. They also plan to experiment with unique flavours, such as pandan beer, while still keeping a good core of traditional beers.

During the launch phase, PaperKite beer was distributed to the Tap Room KL, a bar and restaurant with a pizzeria and craft cocktails. The Tap Room KL has become a highly popular venue, serving locally-made craft beer from PaperKite. The venue is now so popular that it is difficult to visit without reservations, and long queues can be expected on weekends.

PaperKite has also been featured at The Great Beer Bar in Petaling Jaya, which offers a range of international and locally-brewed craft beers.

Frequently asked questions