With over 90 years of brewing heritage in Indonesia, Multi Bintang Indonesia continues to strengthen its position as a leading beverage company while embracing sustainability and forging international partnerships, including in Japan.
“At Multi Bintang Indonesia, as part of The Heineken Company, we stay rooted in our purpose to brew the joy of true togetherness to inspire a better world — all while operating sustainably and responsibly,” said Roland Bala, president director of Multi Bintang Indonesia.
The company’s portfolio has continuously evolved to meet changing consumer preferences. Beyond its flagship Bintang brand, Heineken beer and Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager, the brewery remains committed to innovation. In January, it expanded its Bintang portfolio with the launch of Bintang Arak Jeruk & Madu — a unique blend of Balinese arak, refreshing orange and sweet honey available exclusively in Bali.
This focus on innovation creates natural synergies with Japanese business culture. “We share some similarities with the Japanese community; that is, a focus on innovation and quality,” Bala said. “This common ground makes the Japanese community an important group to us, and we continuously strive to strengthen our connection.”
Recently, this connection was highlighted when members of the Japanese Consulate, as part of Junior Chamber International, toured Multi Bintang’s Sampangagung brewery in East Java, experiencing firsthand the company’s dedication to craftsmanship.
Sustainability remains at the core of Multi Bintang’s operations. “Sustainability is central to our operations, as we believe long-term success comes from doing business responsibly, for both people and the planet,” Bala said.
The company has hit noteworthy environmental markers, with water-balanced processes among its achievements. “Last year, we achieved a significant milestone — fully water-balancing our operations, meaning we replenish 1.5 liters of water to the local watersheds for every liter of beer we sell,” Bala noted. Multi Bintang has also implemented renewable energy solutions, using rice husks to fuel its brewing process since 2018 and recently installing solar panels at both breweries to further reduce fossil fuel dependency.
Moreover, community engagement complements these environmental initiatives. “On the social pillar, we empower communities through 316 waste banks and waste management units near our breweries, engaging 14,000-plus households and managing 187 tons of waste,” Bala said.
Looking ahead, the company envisions greater potential for deeper collaboration between Japan and Indonesia. “Our shared focus on innovation and quality opens more opportunities for collaboration between Multi Bintang Indonesia and the Japanese community,” Bala concluded.
The company likewise extends a warm invitation to Japanese visitors interested in exploring the craftsmanship behind Heineken, Tiger and Bintang, further strengthening the cultural and economic ties between the two nations.
