11 July 2018: The culinary event of the month draws chefs from around the world to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

The Worldchefs Congress & Expo began its four day run in the heart of the capital this morning, with chefs from 105 countries convening at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The will are set to address trends on emerging food cultures from around the world in a variety of forums, discussions and talks.


Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, Tuan Muhammad Bakhtiar Bin Wan Cik officiating the opening ceremony

With the theme ‘Asia On A Plate’, the topics will centre on creativity and a sustainable future, while a cooking challenge will heat up the kitchens. Meanwhile, a large-scale expo will showcase the latest in culinary solutions and kitchenware in Halls 1, 2 and 4 of the Centre.

Officiating the opening ceremony was Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, Tuan Muhammad Bakhtiar Bin Wan Cik who welcomed international and local delegates to the milestone event.

In his opening speech the Minister expounded on the growth in Malaysia’s tourism sector and how the Congress would be a great contributor to those numbers and the country’s position as a gastronomic hub.

“This event will help generate economic benefits to Malaysia by stimulating spending and creating job opportunities in various sectors, and to promote development in the culinary, hospitality and food and beverage industry,” said the Minister.


Tuan Muhammad Bakhtiar Bin Wan Cik speaking at the launch

Also present at the opening ceremony was Worldchefs Congress Chairman Chef Andy Cuthbert, Worldchefs President Chef Thomas Gugler, President, Professional Culinaire Association of Malaysia Chef Kamaruddin Adnin, Secretary General, Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Datuk Rashidi bin Hasbullah and CEO of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau Datuk Zulkefli Hj. Sharif.

Following opening speeches, a souvenir presentation and drum performance took place, leading right into the traditional parade of nations which saw the flags from all participating countries in this year’s Congress lined up on stage.

Organised by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies, the biennale event has been held since 1928 and hosted in 20 cities across the world since its inception.