KUCHING – Sarawak’s culinary talents are set to represent Kuching at the prestigious Master Chef of Foodex 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from 15 to 18 April.
The participation underscores Kuching’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and highlights the city’s commitment to promoting its rich food heritage on the global stage.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP).
Both institutions have worked closely with chefs, industry stakeholders and strategic partners to position Kuching as a leading centre of gastronomy.
Their efforts include programmes designed to showcase Sarawak’s diverse culinary traditions, distinctive ingredients and cultural diversity.
Representing Kuching and Sarawak at Foodex 2026 are Chef Robbie Richard Balcarek and Chef Nicky Nelson of Little Fairy Café, Chef Iana Akam and Chef Janncy Nyohim of Fairy Tavern, Chef Wilson Voon of Fish Buddy Aquarium and Café, Chef Ronald Bong of Regal Hainanese Chicken Rice, and Chef Benny Huang of Xian Corner.
These chefs embody the creativity and excellence of Sarawak’s culinary community, blending tradition with innovation to present dishes that reflect the state’s unique identity.
Dato Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South City Council, praised the chefs as outstanding ambassadors for the city.
“Their dedication and ability to blend tradition with innovation position them as outstanding ambassadors of Kuching on the global stage,” he said.
Sarawak will also be represented at the judging level, with Chef Julian from Little Hainan Restaurant and Chef Jordan from Jordan’s Signature invited to serve as judges.
Their appointments highlight the growing international recognition of Sarawak’s culinary expertise and reinforce the state’s reputation in the global gastronomy arena.
This year has already seen significant progress in Kuching’s gastronomy journey. Earlier, four chefs represented the city at the International Cities of Gastronomy Fest in Macau.
In July, six chefs are scheduled to travel to Madinah for the Kuching–Madinah Chef Exchange Programme, further strengthening international collaboration and knowledge sharing.
MBKS has pledged to continue advancing Kuching’s gastronomy agenda, working closely with MTCP and other stakeholders to elevate the city’s global standing.
Dato Wee expressed confidence that sustained effort and strong partnerships will ensure Kuching continues to shine as a leading city of gastronomy.
The council extended its best wishes to all participating chefs and judges, encouraging them to represent Sarawak and Malaysia with distinction at Foodex 2026.
