AN INAUGURAL event in Alor Setar, Kedah, showcased one of the largest gatherings of cafe and speciality beverage communities in the northern region.
Sip Cult Fest ‘26 at Aman Central mall brought together more than 70 participating coffee, tea, matcha, dessert and lifestyle brands from Kedah, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and other states.
It attracted coffee enthusiasts, cafe lovers, families and aspiring entrepreneurs.
The lifestyle festival was launched by Alor Setar mayor Datuk Abdul Gafar Yahya.
Throughout four days, visitors enjoyed interactive programmes including coffee discovery sessions, filtered coffee workshops, matcha experience and coffee cupping workshops in addition to tea appreciation sessions.
There were also founder sharing sessions, panel discussions, brewing demonstrations, games, live music performances, competitions, festival merchandise and lucky draws.
Visitors were also issued a “passport” to fill as they explored brands and collected stamps through purchases.
The festival was made possible with the support of cafe owners, industry experts, strategic collaborators and participating brands who came together to share their knowledge, craftsmanship and stories with the community.
At the opening ceremony, Abdul Gafar commended Aman Central for organising a festival that supported entrepreneurship, encouraged innovation and contributed positively to the local economy.
He said such events not only provided valuable opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products and services but also strengthened Alor Setar’s reputation as a progressive city that embraced creativity, tourism and community engagement.
Aman Central marketing communications assistant general manager Ken Chin said the festival created experiences that united communities and supported local businesses.
“Our vision was to build a platform where passionate cafe owners, talented baristas, entrepreneurs and coffee lovers could come together to connect, share knowledge, inspire one another, collaborate and celebrate the growing cafe culture in the northern region.
“We want it to become a platform where local entrepreneurs are celebrated, meaningful collaborations are formed and Alor Setar continues to grow as a destination for cafe culture and lifestyle experiences.”
Aman Central is Kedah’s largest shopping mall, offering a wide range of retail, dining, entertainment and lifestyle experiences.
