108 of the most outstanding and influential figures in the F&B and culinary industry were honoured at the World Top Gourmet Awards 2024.
The awards recognize the awardees for their excellence, creativity and innovation in the highly competitive F&B and culinary world.
Winners hailed from diverse culinary backgrounds, representing both long-established and emerging talents, all of whom have left an indelible mark on the global gourmet scene.
The event was held at Sunway Resort Hotel, Petaling Jaya on Oct 3, 2024 and drew nearly 1,000 attendees, including master chefs, top-tier restaurateurs and representatives from leading global brands across various countries.
Guest of honour Tourism Malaysia deputy director general (promotions II) Samuel Lee said this event highlights the excellence in culinary arts and also fosters a spirit of unity and collaboration across borders, which is highly value in Malaysia’s tourism and cultural sectors.
“Culinary tourism is a powerful driver of economic growth, and through this partnership with the World Top Gourmet Awards, we aim to showcase Malaysia’s rich food culture to a global audience,” he said.
Lee said events like these help promote local talents and cuisine, and encourage travelers to explore the diverse offerings as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“We are immensely proud to recognize the exceptional achievements of this year’s 108 award winners. Their contributions have shaped the way the world experiences food and their commitment to excellence continues to set new standards in the F&B and culinary industry,” said World Top Gourmet Awards president Dr Peggy Chong.
Chong also announced the upcoming Explore Nation app, an innovative travel tool to enhance the experiences of both domestic and international visitors.
“We are witnessing a new era in promoting lifestyle products and services. This app will help local merchants and restaurateurs reach a wider audience, showcasing their products and services not just to Malaysians, but to an international market. This kind of technological innovation is essential in driving growth in our F&B and tourism industries,” she said.
The deputy director general promotion’s attendance elevates the significant of the event, highlighting the government’s support for the F&B and hospitality industry in fostering tourism growth and elevating Malaysia’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
Along with the presence of distinguished chefs like Martin Yan, Jeffrey Tan and Thomas A. Gugler, the event is not just a celebration of F&B and culinary excellence but also of global and national importance.
Their presence adds a significant level of prestige, given their vast experience and influence in the F&B world. Hosting these top chefs signals the importance and high standards of the food awards.
Martin Yan is a renowned International Chinese Culinary Icon, known for his television program Yan Can Cook and his efforts to popularize Asian cuisine globally.
Jeffrey Tan is recognized for his effort in promoting cooking for charity worldwide is a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
Thomas A. Gugler is the president of the World Association of Chefs Societies (Worldchefs), an international platform promoting culinary excellence and education.
Many top brands, master chefs and prominent personalities were recognized at the awards night. Among the awardees were F&B brands such as Oriental Kopi, DKing, De.Wan 1958 by Chef Wan, Ishin, Andaman Seafood Village, M Cuisine, RT Pastry, Black Tap, Dai Jin Dining, Vanilla Crepe, Peranakan Place, Abang J, and world-renowned master chefs such as Master Chef Professor Emeritus Bill Sy (USA), Master Chef Au Kam-Wo (China), Celebrity Chef Prof. Zam (Malaysia) and Master Chef David Dong-Hyun Kim (South Korea).
