Earlier today candidates from across the region congregated in Kuala Lumpur for the quarter final round. During this preliminary round of the contest the candidates who came to Malaysia from throughout the Pacific Rim were put through a rigorous quarterfinal round featuring a combination of service, tastings and written examinations. ASI Vice-President for Asia & Pacific Saiko Tamura-Soga says, “there are so many wonderful stories being created by the contest, as competing this year was a mix of contestants ranging from first time Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific contestants to the very experienced, such as Reeze Choi representing China, who placed third at the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World 2023 in Paris. We also had a great mix of women and men competing, which reflects the true diversity of our profession.”
Of this year’s contest, ASI President William Wouters says “events like this go far beyond the contest stage. They are moments where our global sommelier family comes together to share knowledge, celebrate diversity, and honour the craft of sommellerie. These gatherings create a unique space for candidates, association delegates, the press, and ASI leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships. Just as importantly, they serve as a platform for learning as they offer an inspiring programme of masterclasses that shine a light on both the richness of the host region and the breadth of the international beverage world.”
With the quarterfinal round behind them, the competitors, national presidents, judges and partners gathered today at the Chuai Heng Banquet Hall in Kuala Lumpur for dinner and the much-anticipated announcement of the semi-finalists.
The Semi-Finalists are (in no particular order):
Reeze Choi, China
Miyuki Morimoto, Japan
Ratmir Akhmetov, Kazakhstan
Yi Ying Yong, Malaysia
Celine Jung, Singapore
Jungmin An, South Korea
Patrick Chiu, Taiwan
Livestream of the Final
The Final will take place on Wednesday, September 10, 14:00–18:00 Malaysia Time (MYT) and will be broadcast live worldwide via YouTube.
Photo Credit: ASI 2025
