ICYMI, Toki Suntory Whisky is now available here in Malaysia — joining the likes of Kakubin, Hibiki and Yamazaki among others under the House of Suntory umbrella. Unveiled at An Livehouse in Kuala Lumpur, Toki (which means time in Japanese), crafted by House of Suntory’s fifth Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo, is a blend of Hakushu American white oak cask malt whisky, Chita heavy-type grain whisky and Yamazaki malt whiskies.
“What Toki Suntory Whisky brings is not simply another whisky, but a different way of experiencing Japanese whisky, one that feels premium yet accessible,” says Darwin Ng, Suntory Brand Ambassador. Toki, priced at RM268 (Recommended Retail Price), is said to be an opportunity for new and younger consumers to uncover what Japanese whisky is all about.
To learn more about Toki Suntory Whisky and the ever-changing Japanese whisky drinking culture in Malaysia, especially with the younger generation, we had the pleasure of speaking to Darwin himself. For the uninitiated, prior to becoming part of Suntory Global Spirits, Darwin previously held stints at Jann as its Head Bartender and Bar Manager before joining Bar Trigona as its Bar Manager. Additionally, he was also amongst the winners in Malaysia of Suntory’s Global DOJO programme in 2024. And well, the rest is history.
Darwin expresses: “Some of the most rewarding moments have been seeing our brand activations come to life, from Roku Gin and Hibiki to now the official launch of Toki Suntory Whisky in Malaysia.”
Keep reading to find out Darwin’s thoughts on perception of Japanese whisky in today’s zeitgeist, what Toki Suntory Whisky brings to the market and more. There’s also a simple cocktail recipe you can make easily at home towards the end!
Q&A:
Tell us about your role as House of Suntory Brand Ambassador. Looking back on your journey so far, what have been some of the most rewarding experiences or unexpected highlights and what key lesson has stayed with you?
Almost a year into this role, there are still moments where it feels like my first day, in a good way. There is always something new to discover, whether through the brands, the people or the experiences we create together. Some of the most rewarding moments have been seeing our brand activations come to life, from Roku Gin and Hibiki to now the official launch of Toki Suntory Whisky in Malaysia. There is something very fulfilling about seeing an idea evolve into a real experience that people can connect with and enjoy.
Another memorable highlight was attending our global Brand Ambassador camp in Japan, where House of Suntory ambassadors from different markets came together to exchange insights, learnings and experiences. Beyond the tastings and distillery visits, it was a reminder that while our markets may differ, we are all connected by a shared appreciation for craftsmanship and hospitality. One lesson that has stayed with me is that the more you learn, the more you realise how much more there is to discover. That mindset keeps me curious and reminds me to continue approaching both the craft and the people around me with humility.
Japanese whisky has long been associated with ritual and craftsmanship. How are you seeing perceptions evolve among today’s new generation of drinkers?
Japanese whisky has traditionally been appreciated by enthusiasts who actively sought out the category. Today, I’m seeing a broader audience becoming curious, not only about the liquid itself, but also about the stories, philosophy and craftsmanship behind it. Consumers today want more than just a glass or a bottle; they want to understand where it comes from and what makes it distinctive. There is a growing appreciation for the details, from how a whisky is blended to the culture and traditions that shape its identity.
That is where my role becomes meaningful. As the Brand Ambassador of House of Suntory in Malaysia, I see myself as a bridge between the spirit and the experience, helping consumers discover these stories in an approachable way. Many may not yet have had the opportunity to visit our distilleries in Japan or experience Japanese culture firsthand, so creating those moments of understanding and connection becomes especially important.
Consumers today are increasingly seeking more approachable alcohol options and drinking experiences. How important is whisky’s versatility in attracting new audiences to the category, and how does House of Suntory, particularly through Toki Suntory Whisky, reflect this shift in contemporary whisky culture?
Versatility plays an important role in making whisky feel more approachable to a wider audience today. Consumers no longer believe there is only one “correct” way to enjoy whisky. Instead, they are looking for drinks and experiences that fit naturally into different moments and occasions. At the same time, versatility should never come at the expense of character. A great whisky should retain its identity regardless of how it is enjoyed.
Toki Suntory Whisky reflects this balance particularly well. Crafted from Hakushu and Yamazaki single malts alongside Chita single grain whisky, it delivers a subtle yet complex profile with notes of green apple and honey, layered with citrus, herbs and gentle spice. It is approachable while still maintaining depth and authenticity.
In Malaysia, where consumers increasingly enjoy whisky within social and shared settings, Toki Suntory Whisky naturally complements different occasions, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks or through a thoughtfully crafted serve. Its versatility allows people to discover Japanese whisky in ways that feel more personal and accessible, while still staying true to the craftsmanship behind it.
As a modern expression of Japanese whisky, what makes Toki suitable for today’s lifestyle-driven drinking occasions?
Consumers today value experiences that feel authentic and meaningful. Drinking occasions have become less about formality and more about finding moments to pause and enjoy, whether that is unwinding after a long workday, catching up with friends over dinner or taking a moment for yourself at the end of the week.
Toki Suntory Whisky fits naturally into these occasions because it was created as a modern expression of Japanese whisky that balances heritage with contemporary enjoyment. In Malaysia particularly, I see it fitting into shared dining occasions, after-work gatherings and relaxed evenings where people want something premium that still feels approachable.
Whether enjoyed neat to appreciate its full complexity, or on the rocks as a slow-sipping whisky where its citrus and herbal notes gradually open up, Toki Suntory Whisky complements the occasion rather than dominating it. It becomes less about ritual for the sake of ritual, and more about creating meaningful moments around the experience itself.
Toki is now available in Malaysia. What do you think the whisky brings to the market that’s missing?
Toki Suntory Whisky brings a fresh perspective to authentic Japanese whisky in Malaysia. While Japanese whisky has often been associated with rarity, collectability or special occasions, it introduces an expression that feels more naturally integrated into everyday enjoyment without compromising on craftsmanship.
Crafted using traditional whisky-making methods, Toki Suntory Whisky is a blend made with 50% malt and 50% grain, bringing together Hakushu and Yamazaki single malts alongside Chita single grain whisky. This balance reflects the House of Suntory’s philosophy while offering a profile that feels approachable and contemporary.
What Toki Suntory Whisky brings is not simply another whisky, but a different way of experiencing Japanese whisky, one that feels premium yet accessible. It gives younger consumers, as well as those who are curious about Japanese whisky, an opportunity to discover and experience the category in a way that feels approachable and relevant to how people gather and enjoy drinks today.
If Toki represents the future of Japanese whisky enjoyment, what do you hope Malaysian consumers will discover about the category?
I hope Malaysians discover that Japanese whisky is not defined by rarity or prestige alone. For many people, the category can sometimes feel distant because perceptions are often shaped by highly allocated or difficult-to-find expressions that become associated only with special occasions.
Toki Suntory Whisky offers a different perspective. Beyond the liquid itself, I hope consumers begin to appreciate the philosophy behind Japanese whisky-making, where the experience is shaped not only by flavour, but also by craftsmanship, attention to detail and the moments created around it.
Whether through the choice of serveware, the preparation or the hospitality that surrounds it, Japanese whisky places value on the overall experience. If Toki Suntory Whisky can encourage consumers to discover and appreciate that way of thinking, then it becomes more than just a whisky, it becomes a way of understanding a wider culture of enjoyment and connection.
What do you think has driven the Japanese Highball and its popularity?
The Japanese Highball sits at the heart of Suntory’s DNA, serving as the brand’s signature drink for sessionable occasions where consumers can enjoy multiple rounds over time. Its popularity comes from its simplicity and intention. It was never created to mask the flavour of whisky, but rather to showcase it in a different expression. Its crisp and refreshing character makes it enjoyable on its own, while also pairing naturally with food as it complements rather than competes with flavours.
More broadly, its popularity reflects changing consumer preferences today. Consumers increasingly seek drinks that are flavourful yet approachable, lighter in style and suited to different social occasions. In Malaysia’s warm climate, the refreshing nature of a Highball naturally resonates with how people choose to drink and gather.
In your opinion, how do you see Japanese whisky fitting into the lifestyles of consumers in Malaysia, especially in F&B establishments?
Malaysia has one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting and diverse dining cultures, and Japanese whisky fits naturally within that landscape. With our climate and variety of cuisines, consumers often gravitate towards drinks that feel refreshing while still delivering depth and character.
Within F&B spaces, Japanese whisky offers flexibility across different experiences. In Malaysia, Toki Suntory Whisky is often enjoyed in shared bottle-serve occasions in bars and dining venues, reflecting its role in more social and communal drinking moments. It can elevate a premium dining experience when served on the rocks over a large ice block, while also fitting comfortably into more relaxed environments where people gather to unwind and connect.
Its versatility allows venues to create experiences tailored to different consumers and occasions while still maintaining the craftsmanship and identity of the whisky itself.
In what ways does Toki align with today’s growing preference for premium “treat yourself” moments and evolving social enjoyment?
Consumers today do not necessarily reserve premium experiences only for major celebrations. Increasingly, there is value placed on smaller moments of enjoyment and taking time to pause within everyday routines.
Toki Suntory Whisky fits naturally into this mindset because it brings a sense of quality and occasion into moments that may otherwise feel ordinary. Whether it is sharing a meal with friends after work, catching up over conversations or simply taking a quiet moment to unwind at the end of the day, these experiences become opportunities to slow down and enjoy the present.
Sometimes treating yourself does not need to be extravagant. It can simply be about making time for a good drink and a meaningful moment so treat yourself to a glass of Toki Suntory Whisky, served your way.
Beyond the whisky itself, what do the Japanese principles of continuous refinement, humility and precision mean to you personally?
These principles have shaped both the way I approach my role as a Brand Ambassador and my personal mindset. Continuous refinement reminds me that craftsmanship is not about reaching a final destination, but about the learning process and consistently improving over time. There is always something new to discover and understand.
Humility is equally important because the more experience you gain, the more you realise there is still much left to learn. Whether I’m working with bartenders, partners or conducting tastings and masterclasses, I believe remaining curious is essential.
As for precision, it is not just about respecting the craft, but putting it into practice. A compromise in precision is a compromise in the experience. Small elements often shape how an experience is remembered, and even the smallest refinement can make the most significant difference.
Can you share with us one simple Toki cocktail recipe that can be made easily at home?
One of my favourite ways to enjoy Toki Suntory Whisky at home is a simple, refreshing highball-style serve that highlights its versatility while keeping things simple.
Ingredients:
30 ml Toki Suntory Whisky
10 ml Elderflower Liqueur
5 ml Lemon Juice
Top up with soda water
Grapefruit Slice and Peel
Sprig of Mint
Method:
Build Toki Suntory Whisky, elderflower liqueur and lemon juice in a highball glass filled with ice. Stir until chilled and combined. Top up with soda water, then give a light lift on the ice to integrate the soda without losing its effervescence. To finish, garnish with a grapefruit slice and peel, and a sprig of mint for an extra burst of fresh aroma.
It’s a simple serve, but what makes it work is balance, the floral sweetness of elderflower, the citrus brightness of lemon and the smooth character of Toki Suntory Whisky coming together in a light, refreshing expression that is easy to recreate yet still considered in flavour.
Learn more about Toki Suntory Whisky HERE.
For non-Muslims, aged 21 and above only. When you drink, please don’t drive.
(All photos by House of Suntory)
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.