KUCHING: A rising Sarawak chef is bringing the flavours of Borneo to West Malaysia, using food as a bridge to promote the state’s tourism and cultural identity during a series of high-level networking sessions.
Chef Robbie Richard Balcarek, owner and chef of Little Fairy Cafe, was invited by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) to participate in multi-city Business-to-Business (B2B) Business Networking Sessions held in Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi on January 26, 27 and 29.
“Being part of this B2B programme is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the promotion of Sarawak beyond the state,” said Robbie, describing the experience as both an honour and a responsibility.
The sessions were organised under the ‘Sarawak Gateway to Borneo’ initiative, which aims to strengthen tourism and trade partnerships by connecting Sarawak stakeholders with West Malaysian travel agencies, hotels, product owners, tour operators and universities.
Serving as a strategic platform, the programme promotes Sarawak as a compelling destination for leisure, cultural exploration and business events, while fostering closer collaboration between industry players from both regions.
As a Sarawak local chef under the ‘Serumpun Sarawak’ Programme, Balcarek prepared and served Sarawak laksa at each stop, introducing one of the state’s most iconic dishes to participants unfamiliar with its heritage.
Across the three sessions, he prepared more than 200 servings, sharing not only the flavours but also the cultural story behind Sarawak laksa and its place in the state’s diverse food traditions.
The sessions were hosted at DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, Pullman KLCC and Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah, drawing industry stakeholders into a structured environment for networking and knowledge-sharing.
In addition to the culinary showcase, attendees sampled Sarawak coffee by Black Bean Coffee & Tea Company and enjoyed traditional performances by Majlis Seni Sarawak dancers, offering a holistic cultural experience.
Robbie is currently a ‘Serumpun Sarawak’ chef apprentice mentored by Chef James Won, co-founder and custodian of the initiative, which focuses on nurturing emerging Sarawakian culinary talent.
“I would like to commend the Sarawak Tourism Board and all partners involved for their dedication in showcasing Sarawak’s culture, cuisine and tourism potential,” he said, noting encouraging responses from industry partners.
