Megan Lim's career in the industry began with a different kind of beverage: coffee. But when she discovered the creative potential in cocktails, there was no looking back.

“Cocktails are on another level of mixing flavour profiles and showmanship,” she says. “I hope people can understand that being a mixologist is also an opportunity to explore your creativity."

See also: 5 Places in KL Where You Can Toast With Tequila

Despite being away from active bartending for about three years, Angel Ng is still an expert in the field. In fact, she has played an indispensable role in helping to elevate KL's cocktail scene. “I was an extrovert who needed a paying job that could release energy,” says Ng of her interest in the field. 

If she could create a cocktail to represent the modern woman today, it would be "a glass of tequila anejo neat because we are sweet yet filled with subtle complexity."

See also: 11 Questions With Bartenders Angel Ng And Amanda Wan

Raz Ng was inspired by Angel Ng when she visited PS150, where the latter used to work. “Seeing Angel make a cocktail got me fascinated by the artistry behind it, and I wanted to live in a world where I could create drinkable art,” recalls Raz.

Which is exactly what Raz creates behind Gekko’s bar. “Being one of the the few women in the industry has opened up many opportunities for me, as we stand out among the thorns. To thrive in this industry, I would think like the beverage I make—fluid in going with the flow. The ingredients define my emotions and the garnishing is my outlook in life.”

See also: Royal Selangor Helps You Master The Art Of Mixology

Winner of the Bartender of the Year KL 2019 Shirmy Chan is currently the bar consultant for Bar Moku. She was one of the pioneer female bartenders in the city, and her experience shines through her drinks.

“I create a new drink every day but I never name them,” she says. “I only name a drink that I customise to a particular customer and I would not make that drink for anyone else. This is how personal my drinks can be.”

See also: 9 Inspiring Women Taking The Lead In The Malaysian And International F&B Scenes

Chang Yue Shuen kicked off her bartending career in Singapore but has since brought her talent home to Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara. She was waitressing in a restaurant when she realised she wanted to be a mixologist.

"I hope that more women who would love to work behind the bar would just do it without fear. It would be amazing to see more female bartenders and share their stories," she says.

NOW READ

4 Refreshing Summer Cocktail Recipes

These Asian Bars Are Championing The Craft Cocktail Revolution

3 Malaysian Bars Are Among Asia's 50 Best Bars 2021

A resource for women to become their best selves, Front & Female celebrates trailblazers and tackles timely, provocative issues through inspiring content and events. Join the community by subscribing to our newsletter and following #frontandfemale