KUCHING: The inaugural Borneo Culinary World Cup (BCWC) 2026 opened today (Aug 5) with a strong focus on strengthening Kuching’s position as a leading culinary destination while raising the quality and competitiveness of the state’s food industry.
Representing Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng officiated the opening ceremony at the Alumni Hall of Chung Hua Primary School No. 3.
In a speech read by Wee, Dr Sim said the event reinforces Kuching’s standing as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy while complementing the Kuching Festival, Kuching City Day celebrations and Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“The designation was never meant to sit quietly on a certificate. It was meant to be lived, cooked, tasted and shared. That is exactly what will happen over the next three days,” he said.
Dr Sim said the Sarawak Government has been deliberate in positioning the state as more than a stopover destination, noting that gastronomy tourism is among the fastest growing segments in global travel.
“International culinary competitions such as BCWC not only attract visitors but also raise food safety, hygiene and professional standards across the local food service industry by allowing Sarawakian chefs to be judged, trained and challenged by internationally recognised experts,” he said.
He also highlighted the collaborative effort between MBKS and the organisers in relocating the competition to the school hall on Jalan Padungan after a venue change, describing it as an example of how local government, industry and the community can work together to deliver major international events.
Meanwhile, organising chairman Chef Julian L. Henry said BCWC 2026 features 10 main categories and 48 subcategories judged by around 60 local and international judges, making it the largest culinary competition ever organised in Sarawak.
“We want our Sarawakian chefs to stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world, to be judged, trained and challenged by them without having to leave home. Whether they bring back a medal or simply a lesson, it stays with them for the rest of their career,” he said.
