VALLADOLID: Sarawak has reiterated its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the World Tapas Championship, with Sarawak delegation organiser Sim Ling Ling expressing pride in the state’s growing presence on the global culinary stage.
Sim, who is the chief executive officer (CEO) of Ethos Connect International Consulting Sdn Bhd, said this year’s results clearly demonstrated the rising influence of Asian talents in the competition.
“I would like to thank the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) for having the confidence and trust in us to bring a delegation from Sarawak—comprising our chef jurors, media representatives, industry players, associations, and those who have supported us over the past two years in making past competitions successful,” she said.
Sim highlighted that two Asian chefs placed in the top five this year—a milestone she described as highly meaningful for the region.
Among them was 24-year-old Miri-born chef Liew Kit Kiet, whose tapas creation La Perla de Borneo (Pearl of Borneo) earned international attention.
“For this year’s championship, we are very happy because two Asian chefs made it into the top five, and one of them is Liew,” she said.
Sim pointed out that the concept of tapas, or small bites, aligns naturally with Sarawak’s food culture, which emphasises sharing, variety, and small-portion dining.
She also expressed optimism for the upcoming World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition 2026, following a courtesy meeting with the Mayor of Valladolid, Jesús Julio Carnero, on Nov 12.
During the courtesy visit, Sim extended an invitation to Carnero to attend next year’s event which is scheduled to take place from June 17 to 21 in Miri.
“After our meeting with the Mayor of Valladolid, he expressed great excitement about what we will bring to the next edition—especially with more Asian contestants participating,” she said.
Sim further confirmed Sarawak’s continued support for next year’s World Tapas Championship.
“We have already confirmed our support for next year’s World Tapas Championship, where Sarawak will also host an additional programme in June. Our team is ready, and we look forward to strengthening this partnership even further,” she said.
