YBrs. Encik Syed Yahya Syed Othman, Senior Director, Strategic Planning of Tourism Malaysia officiated the announcement of the World Top Gourmet Awards 2022 – an award show that honors and appreciates the hospitality and Food and Beverages (F&B) industry in their contributions to boosting Malaysia’s tourism by providing authentic, fusion and fine dining experiences in the region; making Malaysia a top holiday destination domestically and internationally.
World Gourmet, a platform that aims to stimulate the economy by encouraging the growth of the F&B sector is back in the scene with its 4th World Top Gourmet Awards 2022. The award show is a stepping stone for World Gourmet as they look forward to contributing significantly to the tourism industry and introducing Malaysia’s delicious local and world-class cuisine to people all around the world.
Tourism Malaysia is supporting World Gourmet on its mission to be a contributor to one of the six visionary pillars – ‘Boost Domestic Tourism’ listed in the Tourism Malaysia Strategic Planning Program 2022-2026 that aims to boost the tourism industry with new and innovative strategies.
YBrs. Encik Syed Yahya Syed Othman, Senior Director, Strategic Planning of Tourism Malaysia shared his delight in the main event, “This event will be aligned with Tourism Malaysia’s strategic planning program over the next few years where we will be repositioning Malaysia back on the map; with a focus on reviving the country’s economy through domestic tourism and promoting the country as one of the top holiday destinations.”
The World Gourmet does not limit itself to just a culinary award. In addition to honoring restaurants for their cuisine, service, and dining experiences, they also give the country’s unique neighborhood eateries and enterprising business models the recognition they deserve as they play a vital role in being the spark of interest in Malaysia’s unique culture, tourism and heritage.
Peggy Chong, President of World Gourmet and organizer of the main event said, “This year’s participation has been overwhelming as industry players, including restaurants and chefs have come forward to showcase their high standard of excellence. We are aiming to present 80 awards to restaurants and chefs this October including a total of 60 titles for restaurants and 20 titles for chefs and individuals.”
“The award would be an impetus for the industry to stimulate growth and interest while promoting cross-learning, networking, and economic opportunities amongst industry players,” Chong added. To date, the award has attracted more than 60 entries, close to its target of 100 entries since nominations opened in April 2022.
The press conference was graced by the attendance of renowned celebrity chef, Chef Daniel Green who was awarded the International Celebrity Chef Award 2022 in the Eating-For-Health category.
Furthermore, Celebrity Master Chef Jeffrey Tan, OAM from Australia who is also the Founder of Cooking For Charity was appointed as Chef of Honor 2022.
Patron of the awards, Puan Sri Datin Seri (Dr.) Susan Cheah, Sunway Group EXCO member and Founder of OneCaring Heart, who is renowned for her passion for good food was also in attendance to show their support with Culinary Advisor of the awards Puan Sri Nisa Bakri, a renowned TV food program personality chef and food brand entrepreneur.
Not only that, World Gourmet also received support from Encik Remee Yaakub, Director of Halal, F&B and Agro Based Export Promotion & Market Access of MATRADE (represented by Encik Badrul Hisham Hilai, Senior Manager Halal, F&B and Agro Based Export Promotion & Market Access of MATRADE at the announcement) to inspire the attendees to potentially contribute in the expansion of Malaysia’s export portfolio with their food and beverage operators in the future.
Other prominent associations, organizations along with chefs and public figures were among the attendees as well to celebrate the World Gourmet on their journey to playing a vital part in Malaysia’s tourism industry.
World Gourmet is exploring new opportunities in collaboration with both industry leaders – Alpha Fintechon for the online marketplace and e-Commerce, and GEB Holding to explore the multi-billion dollar industry of NFT for the F&B operators.
Attendees can expect a night of exclusivity with World Gourmet as they fill the Berjaya Times Square Grand Ballroom with interesting and exciting programs planned and expected to take place this 27 October 2022.
