MIRI: Miri has proven its capability to host major international events and should continue attracting more global programmes that bring long-term benefits to Sarawak’s tourism and business sectors, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts said the successful staging of the World National and World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition, Festival and Seminar 2026 (WATCEFS 2026) demonstrated the city’s readiness to welcome international delegates, industry professionals, and visitors from around the world.
“Events like this are investments. The returns are measured not just in ringgit, but in relationships that compound over years and decades,” he said during a visit to the four day event held at the Meritz Hotel here.
According to a press release, Abdul Karim met competing chefs, international jurors, and exhibitors during the programme, which drew participants from 13 countries and more than 3,000 visitors.
The event featured 55 chefs competing in the World National and World Asia Tapas competitions, alongside 12 international jurors, more than 100 exhibitors and food vendors, as well as a series of seminars, masterclasses and culinary showcases.
According to the organisers, WATCEFS 2026 served as a platform to strengthen international collaboration in the culinary, tourism and hospitality sectors while showcasing Sarawak’s multicultural identity to a global audience.
Delegations from Spain, China, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, Jordan and Abu Dhabi participated in the event, creating opportunities for networking, cultural exchange, and future business partnerships.
Beyond the competitions, the programme featured the Borneo Barista Art and Coffee Blending Challenge, sustainability seminars on eco-conscious gastronomy and digital tourism, and masterclasses led by industry practitioners from six countries.
A food festival held at The Santai Terrace also highlighted Miri’s cultural diversity, with 11 community associations representing the city’s 34 ethnic communities taking part in the celebration.
Meanwhile, top performers from both the national and Asian tapas competitions will advance to the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain, this November, carrying with them connections forged during the event.
Abdul Karim said the success of WATCEFS 2026 reflected the impact of collaboration between government agencies, industry players, and local communities, while further strengthening Sarawak’s position as a destination for international events and tourism.
