KUCHING: The bilateral relationship between Sarawak and Valladolid, Spain, has been further strengthened through food as a cultural medium, simultaneously boosting tourism.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the initiative serves as a platform to showcase the state’s rich culture and culinary uniqueness to the global audience.
According to a TVS report, he said this presents a significant opportunity to develop Sarawak’s tourism and creative industries.
“Sarawak aims to move beyond dependency on natural resources by nurturing local talents, including in the culinary field, who can inspire the world in a uniquely Sarawakian way.
“Through this event, we can introduce iconic dishes such as ‘umai’, ‘tuak’, and Sarawak laksa to the world.”
Dr Sim said this when officiating the World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition Exhibition and Seminar 2025 held here on Tuesday (June 17).
On the same note, Councillor for Tourism, Events and City Brand of Valladolid City, Blanca Jiménez Cuadrillero, described the event as a cultural bridge between Malaysia and Spain through the Tapas concept.
“Valladolid hosts the National Tapas Competition every year, and the winner of this event will go on to compete in Spain against the world’s best Tapas chefs before a panel of professional judges.
“This is an opportunity to deepen ties between the rich cultures of Malaysia and Spain through a meaningful and lasting event,” she said.
More than 20 exhibitors from the food and beverage sector are participating in the three-day exhibition, which runs from June 17 to 19 at KTS Garden here.
A seminar is also being held alongside the exhibition, featuring industry experts discussing topics such as food sustainability, certification, carbon-neutral events, agriculture, and emerging trends.
Three culinary competitions are adding to the excitement, namely the second edition of the National Tapas Competition, the inaugural Barista Art Challenge, and the first-ever Asia Tapas Competition featuring participants from Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Japan, and other countries.
