BINTULU: Food is no longer merely a complement but has emerged as a key tourism draw, shaping national identity and boosting Malaysia’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, said current travel trends showed that more tourists were choosing destinations based on the gastronomic experiences offered.
He said Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity and unique culinary heritage in many states could be developed into major tourism products.
“Every state, district and even community has its own distinct flavours that can attract tourists.
“The experience of enjoying authentic local cuisine often leaves a deeper impression than simply visiting a destination,” he said in a speech delivered by his special duties officer, Steven Kong Kai Seng, at the Global Culinary Awards Dinner held at a hotel here today.
Tiong, who is also Bintulu Member of Parliament, said culinary competitions not only served as platforms to showcase skills but also acted as cultural exchanges, bringing together chefs from diverse backgrounds.
He added that the fifth edition of the event, organised by the Global Chefs and Culinary Malaysia Association (GCCM) with strategic partners including culinary associations from Sarawak and Negeri Sembilan, as well as Food & Drinks Malaysia by Salon International de l’Alimentation (SIAL), reflected its growing stature and international participation.
“The continuity of the event into its fifth edition reflects the organisers’ commitment to expanding participation and elevating the culinary field,” he said.
Tiong also acknowledged that the country’s food and beverage industry continued to face challenges, particularly its reliance on foreign labour and the lack of interest among younger generations in pursuing culinary careers.
He stressed the need for coordinated efforts to ensure continuous skills transfer and to attract more local talents into the industry.
Tiong said the ministry would continue to strengthen gastronomic tourism, especially in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, with a focus on quality, standards and talent development.
At the same event, he announced an allocation of RM300,000 to GCCM to support industry development and nurture more skilled local workforce.
