Since Asia’s 50 Best Bars extended its rankings up to 100 in 2021, the number of countries and cities represented has expanded from an inaugural nine cities across eight countries in 2016 to 25 cities in 11 countries this year. A secondary effect has been that the 51-100 list serves as a hotbed for younger cocktail cities. Barc entered the list in 2023, putting Kathmandu on the map, while cities like Hangzhou and Galle made the rankings for the first time this year. Tan has not been deterred, though, in her efforts to build Malaysia’s cocktail scene, and is leading the charge. Together, the bars annually host KL Cocktail Week, while Three X Co focuses on cocktail-pairing menus and approaches Gen Z in addition to their regular service.