KUCHING – Sarawak’s culinary talent has once again captured international attention, with Kuching chefs delivering outstanding performances at the MasterChef of Foodex 2026 competition in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The event showcased the city’s growing reputation as a hub of culinary excellence and innovation, reinforcing its standing as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Representing a wide spectrum of Kuching’s food industry, local chefs secured multiple awards across diverse categories. Their achievements highlighted both technical mastery and the distinctive identity of Sarawak’s cuisine.
Chef Iana Akam of Fairy Tavern earned Gold in the Noodle Category with her Laksa Sarawak, a dish praised for its depth of flavour and cultural authenticity.
Fellow competitor Chef Janncy Nyohim won Bronze in the Rice Category, presenting a creative take on nasi lemak that incorporated bunga kantan and traditional Sarawak rice varieties.
From Little Fairy Cafe, Chef Nicky Nelson impressed judges with a refined vermicelli dish paired with terung asam chicken soup, securing Silver in the Noodle Category.
Chef Robbie Richard Balcarek also achieved Silver in the Rice Category with his nasi goreng daun ubi, complemented by tempoyak and other heritage ingredients that reflect Sarawak’s culinary diversity.
In the National Team Category, chefs Iana, Janncy, and Robbie combined their expertise to earn Silver, presenting a cohesive menu that integrated Borneo ingredients into modern culinary expressions.
Strong performances were also recorded in the seafood division. Chef Benny Huang of Xian Corner and Chef Wilson Voon of Fish Buddy & Aquarium Cafe both secured Silver, demonstrating refined technique and flavour precision.
Meanwhile, Chef Ronald Bong of Regal Hainanese Chicken Rice showcased versatility by winning Bronze in the Seafood Category and Silver in the Poultry Category.
Sarawakian representation extended beyond competition, with Chef Jordan of Jordan’s Signature and Chef Julian Lai of Little Hainan Restaurant serving on the international judging panel.
Their inclusion reflected the growing recognition of Sarawak’s culinary professionals on the global stage.
Dato Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South, commended the chefs for their achievements, noting that their success reflects the strength and diversity of Kuching’s food community.
“Our chefs have not only demonstrated skill and creativity but have also successfully brought Sarawak’s culinary identity to the international stage. Their achievements reflect the strength, diversity, and unity of Kuching’s food community,” he said.
He added that the accomplishment further strengthens Kuching’s position as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy while reinforcing the role of gastronomy as a driver of cultural exchange, tourism, and economic development.
MBKS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of the local gastronomy sector through promotion, talent development, and international engagement.
The continued success of Sarawakian chefs on global platforms underscores Kuching’s emergence as a culinary destination, highlighting the city’s dedication to preserving heritage while embracing innovation.
