For decades, Malaysia’s spirits and wine landscape was shaped almost entirely by imported brands until Bennison Distillery Sdn Bhd emerged as a bold force of change. With its celebrated BD Red Wine and a growing portfolio of artisanal spirits, the distillery has carved out a sovereign path for Malaysian-made products. Built on uncompromising craftsmanship, disciplined quality control, and a brand soul rooted deeply in local culture, Bennison Distillery is more than an industry participant, it is a pioneer redefining the value and identity of Malaysian craft beverages. And at the heart of this transformation stands an entrepreneur whose conviction reshaped an entire sector: Mr. Ricky Ngan Meow Yiap.

The entrepreneurial journey of Mr. Ricky Ngan did not begin with capital, privilege, or a formula for guaranteed success. Instead, it grew from something more profound, an enduring respect for craftsmanship, culture, and the spirit of home. Raised among stories of artisans and their unwavering dedication, he came to believe that excellence, when paired with sincerity, would allow Malaysian products to stand confidently alongside the world’s finest. When he entered the industry and saw local talent and resources overshadowed by imported labels, he asked the question that would alter the course of his life and, eventually, an entire industry: “Why not create something proudly Malaysian?” This refusal to accept limitations became the spark that ignited his vision, guiding every step of his entrepreneurial path.

The road that followed was anything but easy. Limited resources, steep technical barriers, repeated experimental failures, financial pressure, and uncertainty often tested his resolve. Determined to master the art of distillation and winemaking, he travelled across Malaysia and abroad to learn from experts, studied diverse ingredients, and explored both traditional and contemporary methods. Failed batches, imperfect processes, and market skepticism were constant hurdles. Yet instead of yielding, Mr. Ricky Ngan absorbed every setback, refined every attempt, and pushed forward. To him, a brand with true soul is forged through adversity and an entrepreneur reveals his essence when he chooses to persist in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Years of discipline and devotion culminated in the founding of Bennison Distillery. For Mr. Ricky Ngan, creating commercial products was never the goal; he aspired to craft works that represent a nation. He envisioned spirits that carry cultural depth, embody international standards, and uplift the value of local artisans and the domestic supply chain. Every bottle produced under Bennison honours three foundations: the story of Malaysia, world-class quality, and the courage to innovate. From BD Red Wine to its expanding spirits lineup, each creation stands as a testament to one message: Malaysia is capable of excellence. This seamless fusion of cultural identity and technical mastery has become the brand’s most powerful and distinctive hallmark.

Under his leadership, Bennison Distillery has cultivated a competitive edge rarely seen in the sector. Local culture flows through every product, giving each bottle an authentic Malaysian character. Strict quality assurance ensures consistency that rivals international benchmarks. A nimble and passionate team allows rapid experimentation and innovation, an agility that larger global brands struggle to match. Anchored by long-term vision, the company remains rooted in its values while continuously expanding its horizons. Combined with a nuanced understanding of Malaysian consumers, Bennison Distillery creates products that resonate deeply with the market’s tastes, traditions, and aspirations. This is what Mr. Ricky Ngan proudly describes as the company’s defining strength: “We achieve what others cannot.”

As a leader, Mr. Ricky Ngan is steady, resilient, and grounded in principle. He does not place himself above his team, believing instead that a true leader is the first to shoulder responsibility and the last to claim credit. He champions transparency, leads by example, and places values at the centre of decision-making. His commitment to nurturing talent is unwavering; he sees his team not as instruments, but as partners. Every individual is given space to grow, to make decisions, and to contribute meaningfully. Achievements are shared, challenges are borne together, and the culture he created has made the company not only stronger but profoundly united with purpose.

Looking ahead, Mr. Ricky Ngan’s vision for the next three years is both clear and ambitious. He aims to elevate Malaysian-made spirits onto a global stage, allowing the world to experience the craftsmanship and cultural richness of Malaysia through a single bottle. He intends to continue pushing innovation, expanding industry boundaries, and using the brand as a platform to uplift the local value chain. He believes Malaysia can be more than a participant in the global market; it can be a creator, a leader, and a source of inspiration.

When Mr. Ricky Ngan was honoured with the 10th Malaysia Top 50 Emerging Entrepreneurs Awards 2025, the recognition symbolised far more than personal achievement. It acknowledged the risks he embraced, the obstacles he overcame, and the resilience he demonstrated. It celebrated the collective efforts of his team and affirmed the rising value of Malaysian-made craftsmanship. Most importantly, it served as a reminder that entrepreneurship is not a destination, but a continuous journey of learning, responsibility, and creating opportunities for others.

Ultimately, his story sends a powerful message to Malaysia: we do not need external validation to be extraordinary. Greatness can begin right here, from our own soil. Through Bennison Distillery, he influences an industry; through his persistence, he shapes the future. And in every way, Mr. Ricky Ngan embodies the most authentic and powerful expression of the Malaysian spirit.

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