01-07-2025
Sarawakian talents shine at world culinary challenge in Ipoh
Wee (fourth right) in a group photo with the outstanding chefs.
KUCHING (July 1): Sarawakian talents brought pride to the state after clinching eight medals, including five golds, at the Second Malaysia Culinary World Cup (MCWC) in Ipoh, Perak recently.
Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the chefs from Kuching proved that Sarawak's rich, multicultural flavours could stand tall among the world's best in the prestigious competition, which gathered nearly 800 entries from over 26 countries.
'I am proud to announce that our chefs brought home a total of eight medals: five golds, two silvers, and one bronze.
'Such victory reflects not only individual mastery, but also the strength of Sarawak's diverse food culture,' he said in a statement.
Wee said Bidayuh chefs Iana Akam, Janncy Nyohim and Robbie Richard Balcarek won the 'Borneo Cuisine' category through their authentic, story-rich presentation.
'Chef Robbie also secured another gold medal for his 'Nasi Goreng Daun Ubi' (Fried Rice with Tapioca Leaves) – a dish deeply-rooted in Sarawakian flavours.
'The fifth gold medal was claimed by Wilson Voon for his Hakka noodle dish.
'The silver medals were earned by Annie Wee Nyuk Ping and Benny Huang, who showcased the living legacy of 'Kolo Mee' and Fuzhou cuisine, whereas Kim Bong's creative 'Kolo Mee with Wagyus, which reflected innovation grounded in tradition, bagged the bronze medal,' said the mayor.
He said as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy, Kuching continues to uphold the values of culinary heritage, sustainability, and cultural identity.
'Our chefs have demonstrated that through storytelling, skills and authenticity, our local cuisines can resonate with international audiences,' he said, while congratulating the chefs for carrying Kuching's gastronomic spirit to new heights and also for making Sarawak proud.
Organised by the Malaysia Bersatu Culinary Association (MBCA) in collaboration with the Global Chef Union (GCU), MCWC had the chefs competing in 65 categorie,s which were judged by 115 professionals.
The world-class platform for culinary excellence, innovation and heritage was also supported by Tourism Perak, the National Archives of Malaysia, Ipoh City Council, and the Perak State Development Corporation.
