KUCHING: Kuching Gourmet Enthusiasts Association is proud to announce that its member, Linna Chieng, together with her teammate, achieved outstanding success at the 5th World Master Chef of Cantonese Cuisine, securing the Gold Award in the Fusion Chinese Cuisine Category.
According to a statement, the international competition, which drew 300 participants from over 30 countries, was judged by a panel of 38 experienced chefs representing various culinary nations.
Competitors were required to complete two dishes within 90 minutes, including full cleaning of their workstations, an intense test of skill, creativity and discipline.
Linna expressed deep gratitude to those who supported her throughout her preparation and during the competition.
“I am so proud to have won the Gold Award. Thank you to everyone who supported my journey, especially president Val Les and the members of Kuching Gourmet Enthusiasts Association for taking care of me every step of the way,” she said.
Participants were tasked with creating two dishes: A compulsory chicken dish using only the ingredients provided by the organiser.
Linna presented Sarawak Black Pepper Chicken, highlighting the Sarawak’s iconic spice.
The team also made a prawn dish, for which competitors could bring only five ingredients.
Linna showcased ‘The Nest of Sarawak’, transforming traditional Sarawak laksa flavours into prawn balls served in a rice paper nest, garnished with egg omelette slices and laksa mayo, an innovative representation of familiar local tastes.
“The challenge was intense, but incredibly rewarding. Turning everyday flavours, from kolo mee to Chinese fusion, into competition-standard dishes took many stressful nights of practice, but the experience was wonderful.
“I’m ready for more challenges ahead,” she said.
