World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition Exhibition Seminar 2025

WORLD NATIONAL TAPAS & WORLD ASIA TAPAS COMPETITION 2025

KTS Garden Conference Hall

Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

17 - 19 June 2025

Days

Hours

Minutes

Seconds

Selamat Datai to Kuching, Sarawak—the Land of the Hornbills—where unforgettable adventures and flavors await!

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition & Seminar 2025, an international celebration of cultural unity and culinary excellence.

Affectionately known as the “Cat City,” Kuching is where modern living and natural beauty coexist in harmony. With an estimated population of 663,000 in 2025, Kuching is rapidly emerging as a vibrant culinary hub in Asia. Our rich heritage of traditional cuisine is evolving into a dynamic platform for international culinary creativity. Food lies at the heart of Kuching’s cultural identity and tourism calendar, making it a key destination for gastronomic exploration and innovation.

This year’s World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition & Seminar 2025 stands as a testament to the tireless efforts of the Sarawak International Technical Vocational Education Association and Ethos Connect International Consulting Sdn Bhd. Sarawak is proud to host both the National and Asia-level Tapas Competitions, further solidifying Kuching’s reputation as a global culinary destination and reinforce its standing as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

As we come together for this remarkable event, we celebrate not only the art of food but also the bridging of cultures and the building of lasting connections between Sarawak and Spain. This event is an open invitation to food enthusiasts, professional chefs and sustainability advocates to be part of a global culinary celebration.

I commend the organizers for their dedication and hard work in making this event a reality. To all participants, may your time and experience here inspire you to become ambassadors of goodwill and innovation in the global tourism and culinary industries.
On behalf of the Sarawak Government and Anak Sarawak, I extend my warmest wishes for a successful and memorable World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition, Exhibition & Seminar 2025.

Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian
Deputy Premier
Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak

It is with great honour that I extend my sincere congratulations to Ms Sim Ling Ling, Organising Chair and President of the Sarawak International Technical & Vocational Education Association, for her exemplary leadership in organising the World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition Exhibition & Seminar 2025.

Sarawak is privileged to welcome Ms Blanca Jiménez Cuadrillero, Minister for Tourism, Events & City Branding of Valladolid, Spain, together with her distinguished delegation. The presence of representatives from Spain presents a unique opportunity for both our cities and nations to further strengthen cooperation in the economic, cultural, and tourism sectors.

We are equally pleased to receive the esteemed jurors, renowned chefs, and distinguished speakers from around the world, whose vast expertise in the culinary arts and international accolades will undoubtedly enrich this event.

Furthermore, the participation of industry experts in food sustainability certifications, waste management, sustainable packaging, and carbon neutrality for event hosting reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices.

The objectives of this event are closely aligned with Kuching’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and Sarawak’s tagline, “Sarawak – More to Discover.” In conjunction with the launch of Air Borneo and the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026, this event is strategically positioned to contribute towards Sarawak’s aspirations in increasing tourism arrivals and receipts.
On behalf of the Government of Sarawak, I wish all participants, guests, and delegates a memorable and rewarding experience in Sarawak.

Delegation from Valladolid, Spain

A delegation from the city of Valladolid, Spain, led by the Minister of Tourism of Valladolid, Ms. Blanca Jiménez Cuadrillero, will attend the competition. The representation of the Spanish city as a special guest offers a unique opportunity for both cities and countries to strengthen ties in economic, cultural, and tourism matters. The Spanish presence will ensure the proper execution of the event, which will select the representatives of the Asian continent for the final to be held in Valladolid, Spain, in November. Ms. Jiménez is also the President of the Gastronomic Destinations Association, Saborea España.

Ms. Blanca Jiménez Cuadrillero

Minister for Tourism, Events, and City Branding of Valladolid.

Mr. Juan Manuel Guimeráns Rubio

GM of the Public- Private Partnership for the Promotion of Tourism of Valladolid

Mr. Rodrigo Criado del Rey Saez

Department of Gastronomy and Wine Tourism

Mr. Angel Pablo Moretón Toquero

Technical Director of the World Tapas Competition

Event background

The Tapas Asia Competition Sarawak 2025 builds on the success of the World Tapas Championship 2024, hosted in Sarawak, Malaysia, on August 13, 2024. This event featured 31 chefs from hotels, restaurants, culinary schools, and entrepreneurial ventures vying to represent Malaysia at the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain, held from November 10 to 14, 2024.

Chef Samuel Goh from Bintulu, Sarawak, won the national title with his dish, “Rollo De Umai”, a creative take on Sarawak’s traditional delicacy. His victory earned him an all-expenses-paid trip to Spain, where he competed against chefs from 15 other countries and showcased his talent before Michelin-starred judges.

Thanks to SITVEA & Ethos Connect International Consulting Sdn Bhd, the success of the 2024 championship secured Sarawak the honor of hosting both the National and Asia-level Tapas Competitions in 2025. Approved by Valladolid’s City Council, birthplace of the Tapas Championship, these events will further establish Sarawak as a culinary hub, highlighting Kuching’s status as a UNESCO Creative City.

PROGRAM

Programme Components. The World National Tapas & World Asia Tapas Competition 2025 is set to attract 2,000 visitors international and domestic visitors over three days, blending local and international audiences for a unique culinary experience. With culinary experts, global media coverage, and networking opportunities for traders, it will celebrate tapas, foster connections, and inspire creativity across borders.

TIME & DATE

17 - 19 June 2025

(Tue - Thurs)

10.00 AM - 5.00 PM

LOCATION

KTS Garden Conference Hall Kuching Sarawak

TARGET GROUP

Professional Chefs
F&B Entrepreneurs
Hoteliers Tourism
Food Enthusiasts

COMPETITION PARTICIPANTS

Nationals Level Qualifier
20 Local Chefs
Regional Level Qualifier
20 Chefs
from 16 countries

EVENT PARTICIPANTS

TARGETED

2000+

across the 3-days event

OBJECTIVES

Culinary Tourism Spotlight

Establish Sarawak as a top destination for food enthusiasts from Asia and Europe.

Global Stage for Local Flavors

Highlight Sarawakian ingredients and heritage through world-class chef competitions.

Bridging Cultures Through Cuisine

Strengthen regional ties by fostering collaboration and cultural exchange among Asian nations.

Boosting Trade Through Gastronomy

Promote economic growth with trade opportunities in European foods, coffee, and authentic food products.

Celebrating Culinary Creativity

Showcase Asian and Sarawakian culinary talents on the international stage.

Food. Culture. Compete

INTERNATIONAL TAPAS, FOODS & COFFEE

Building on the international acclaim garnered by the inaugural World Tapas Championship in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia and the 8th World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain in 2024, Kuching is set to host the 2nd Nationals Championship & 1st Asia Regional Competition. This prestigious event will feature the first-ever tapas, international foods, and coffee workshops and competitions, offering an unparalleled culinary experience.

Experience culinary excellence as Michelin- starred chefs join us at the National tapas & Asia Tapas 2025

International Media Projection included but not limited to:

MALAYSIA, EUROPE, USA, SINGAPORE, BRUNEI, CHINA, THAILAND, VIETNAM, INDONESIA, HONG KONG, TAIWAN, MIDDLE EAST

International Foods & Drinks Trade & Exhibition

From 17 to 19 June 2025, the event will welcome numerous international food importers and exporters, alongside industry professionals, food establishments, and restaurants. Attendees will have the chance to indulge in exquisite culinary delicacies showcased in the competition, guided by a specially issued culinary map of Kuching Creative City of Gastronomy. This is a rare opportunity to savor the finest creations from around the globe, are presented to the public, making it a must-attend event for food enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

KUCHING’S UNIQUE HERITAGE

The city of Kuching has a unique gastronomic heritage. Recognised by united nations as creative city of gastronomy, Kuching is converging traditional food culture with international culinary creativity.

Event Highlights

Featuring the biggest live cooking show hosted in Sarawak covering 16 Asia Countries

2ND NATIONAL TAPAS CHAMPIONSHIP MALAYSIA SARAWAK

18 JUNE 2025

1ST ASIA TAPAS COMPETITION ROAD TO VALLADOLID SPAIN

19 JUNE 2025

INTERNATIONAL TAPAS, FOOD & DRINKS EXHIBITION & TRADE

17 JUNE - 19 JUNE 2025

BARISTA COMPETITION

SUSTAINABLE FOOD WORKSHOPS

17 JUNE - 19 JUNE 2025

Programme Highlights

THE WORLD'S BIGGEST LIVE FOOD COMPETITION (COOKING SHOW)

MEDIA, PROFESSIONAL & INTERNATIONAL PROJECTION

NETWORKING WITH THE BEST OF THE SECTOR GUARANTEED

LATEST FOOD INNOVATIONS AND TRENDS

WORKSHOPS & SATELLITE EVENTS - BARISTA COMPETITIONS

EXCEPTIONAL PRODUCT SHOWCASING & TASTING

SUSTAINED & LONG LASTING RETURN ON INVESTMENT

Event Schedule

Tapas Competition Jurors

Chef Pongcharn "Top" Russell

Chef Pongcharn “Top” Russell, co-owner of Bangkok’s Mia Restaurant, is a trailblazer in Thai cuisine. Trained in Michelin-starred London kitchens, he’s known for his modern European flair. As the first Thai chef to earn a Michelin star for Western cooking, he’s also been named to Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia and BK Magazine’s Best Young Chef.

Chef Michelle Goh

Chef Michelle Goh, co-owner of Bangkok’s Mia, is the first Sarawakian and youngest Malaysian woman to earn a Michelin star. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate, she’s known for her award-winning pastry work and was named “Young Chef of the Year.”

Chef Johnson Wong

Chef Johnson Wong, founder of Gēn 根 in Penang, blends local Malaysian ingredients with modern techniques. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate, he won the Michelin Guide Young Chef Award in 2023 and is redefining fine dining in Malaysia.

Chef Lee Zhe Xi

Chef Lee Zhe Xi, co-founder of Eat and Cook in Kuala Lumpur, reimagines Malaysian cuisine with modern flair. Winner of Asia’s 50 Best “One To Watch” in 2022, he’s a driving force in Malaysia’s fine dining evolution.

Chef Abang Abdul Rahman Bin Abang Haji Omar

Chef Abang Abdul Rahman, President of the Kuching Chefs Association, champions Sarawak’s culinary heritage. A juror at World National Tapas Malaysia 2024, he promotes sustainability and innovation in Malaysian gastronomy.

Chef Jasbir Kaur

Chef Jasbir Kaur is a global culinary leader and educator with Miche- lin-starred experience. As VP of the New Zealand Chefs Association and founder of the Australasia Tapas Competition, she champions talent and innovation worldwide.

Chef Alex Ting

With so much love of the land, Chef Alex decided to start up Kyujin, a restau- rant to showcase all the uniqueness of the terroir of Sarawak. Chef Alex used to run Restaurant Alma in Shanghai, which was awarded Michelin Selected for the year of 2019-2020, with a outstanding cooking of traditional and innovated Spanish cuisine.

Chef Goh Ah Seng

Chef Goh Ah Seng, a champion of Cantonese cuisine from Sarawak, chairs Persatuan Tukang Masak How Yu Kuching. He hosted the 2023 World Master Chefs Competition and was inducted into the Hall of Fame for Cantonese Cuisine.

Chef John Lim

Chef John Lim, co-founder of Singapore’s Senang Supper Club, celebrates Southeast Asian cuisine through intimate dining experiences. Hosted at his botanical studio, This Humid House, the club blends regional flavors with stunning floral design.

Chef Billy Lee

Chef Billy Lee, a seasoned culinary expert from Kuching, founded renowned restaurants like Flavours, Porkie’s, and ZOZO. Former Executive Sous Chef at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, he’s earned prestigious awards and catered for global dignitaries.

Speaker Profile

Mr. Zhang Bin Liang

Topic: Carbon Neutrality In Food Production

Zhang Bin Liang, General Manager of SinoCarbon Training & Innovation, is a leading expert in climate policy and carbon trading. With nearly 20 years of experience, he has guided ETS development and trained over 20,000 professionals across China and beyond.

Mr. Victor Ujai Lasam

Topic: Coffee Art & Trade in Sarawak

Victor Ujai Lasam, Branch Manager of Bon Cafe East Malaysia, is a key advocate for Sarawak’s coffee industry. As Vice Chairman of SUCA/BCA and a sensory judge, he champions the growth of coffee culture and trade across the region.

Ms. Suryati Hj Mahadan

Topic: Coffee Art & Trade in Sarawak (Co-speaker)

Suryati Hj Mahadan,, brings over 30 years of hospitality expertise to her role as a HRD CORP Certified Trainer. Having worked with both international and Malaysian hotel chains since 1994, she has honed her skills in hospitality services and leadership. Suryati holds certifications in Train the Trainer, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and leadership programs, showcasing her commitment to professional growth.

Mr. Roberto Benetello

Topic: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) - Advancing Circular Solutions for Post-Consumer Packaging

Roberto Benetello is CEO of MAREA, Malaysia’s first nonprofit EPR platform for packaging waste. With 25+ years in global leadership roles, he also founded BCSD Malaysia and speaks regularly on sustainability at major forums across the region.

Mr. David Kong

Topic: Food Supply Chain & Certifications

David Kong is Head of Business Assurance at Intertek Malaysia, leading certification and assurance services since 2020. With a background in engineering and over a decade of experience across sectors like oil & gas and smart energy, he brings valuable industry insight.

Ms. Ajeng Indriani

Topic: Food Supply Chain & Certifications

Ajeng Indriani, with 20 years of experience in food, cosmetic, and pharma- ceutical analysis, has been with Intertek since 2011. She has worked closely with BPOM and contributed to Indonesian National Standards, playing a key role in advancing quality, safety, and compliance in the industry.

World National Tapas Competition

participant list

Chef Remington Merupi Anak Jaong
Chef Amirudin Bin Jaafar
Chef Ellyrius Bin Sukimin
Chef Kevin Amerrul Bin Irwan
Chef Mexjenssan Ak Jumpong
Chef Norazira Binti Azlan
Chef Virginia Mary Kedit
Chef Nila Ak Kelly
Chef Jack Owens Bin Atit
Chef Joseph Merupi Ak Elie
Chef Liew Kit Kiet
Chef Nicholas Robert
Chef Jerry Royston Ak Colin
Chef Rochesler Hillary
Chef Nelson Kubu Ak Lua
Chef Archie Sim
Chef Abdul Harith Bin Roslan
Chef Markus Bin Sipa
Chef Zulhizan Bin Sapawi
Chef Tiong Kong Siao

World Asia Tapas Competition

participant list

Chef Daniel Chen
TAIWAN
Chef Sujinda Tongtawin
THAILAND
Chef Lê Anh Minh
VIETNAM
Chef Goh Hong Ping
SINGAPORE
Chef Jose Alfonso Rodriguez Portillo
INDONESIA
CChef AK Muhd Khairuzaman
Bin Pg Abd Rahman
BRUNEI
Chef Dou Dao Hua
CHINA
Chef Hernan Christian Arriola De Jesus
PHILIPPINES
Chef Vuthy Touch
CAMBODIA
Chef Patcharapol Lerdkasempod
THAILAND
Chef Lê Bảo Ngọc
VIETNAM
Chef Abhinaya Dhoj Bista
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Chef Nurul Amal Zunah Binti Zunee
BRUNEI
Chef Riddhima Sood
INDIA
Chef Choi Gyeong-Hun
KOREA
Chef Eri Matsuzaki
JAPAN
CChef Bunchhou Chhon
CAMBODIA

Exhibitors Profile

Boncafé Malaysia

Explore award-winning coffee, teas, and beverage solutions from Boncafé Malaysia. Trusted since 1972, they offer premium blends like All Day and Espresso, plus frappés and coffee machines. Visit their booth to sample and connect with industry professionals.

WE ARE CHUGA 추가

Korea’s Newest and Most Exciting Soju Brand

WE ARE CHUGA 추가 is redefining Korea’s beloved spirit with a modern twist. As the country’s newest soju brand, we create the perfect ice-breakers and party-starters for any occasion. Our sojus are crafted from sugarcane and apple distilled spirits, delivering a naturally sweet aroma and a smooth, clean finish through charcoal filtration.

Every bottle is designed to make both everyday moments and special celebrations memorable. Explore our exciting range of flavors—each one a refreshing companion to your favorite meals, conversations, and tapas pairings.

Bodegas Fariña

Bodegas Fariña brings 80+ years of winemaking from the Toro region. Enjoy tastings, learn about sustainability, and explore their Wine-Art Museum. A must for wine professionals and enthusiasts.

Maestros Aceituneros

Sample Spain’s finest olives from Maestros Aceituneros. Known for creative pairings like olives with guacamole, they offer private label options and sustainable quality.

Aljomar

Taste premium Iberico pork from Aljomar. With 30+ years of experience and global reach, they combine tradition and innovation. Visit for sampling and partnerships.

Juvé & Camps

Savor elegant Spanish sparkling wines from Juvé & Camps. Discover Cava heritage through tastings and meet their expert team to explore collabora- tion.

Xoriguer Gin

Discover Xoriguer Gin from Menorca, made using traditional methods and aged juniper. Sample this unique spirit and explore its maritime heritage at their booth.

Vinos y Licores Picos

Explore award-winning Cantabrian wines and spirits like GIN AS DE PICOS. Visit their booth for tastings and insights into their artisanal craft.

Bodegas Yzaguirre

Since 1884, Bodegas Yzaguirre has blended tradition and innovation in vermouth and wine. Sample their signature creations and learn about their global legacy.

KFF

KFF delivers fresh sandwiches, wraps, and salads with 100% fresh ingredi- ents. Visit to taste and discuss food solutions for modern retail and vending.

Iberico Deli

Founded in 2012 by Kenny and Javi, Ibero Deli imports and distributes premium Spanish food and drinks in Malaysia, with a branch in Kuching. Committed to authenticity and quality, they bring the true taste of Spain to local homes and businesses. Contact +6017 887 7866 (Javi).

Carandia Distribuciones

Carandia offers premium food and beverage distribution. Visit their booth to explore diverse products and discuss tailored solutions for your business.

Regio Mare

Regio Mare presents sustainable canned and smoked seafood like tuna and mackerel. Discover fresh, responsibly sourced options perfect for chefs and retailers.

RiRiXiang (Guangdong Shante RiRiXiang Food Co., Ltd.)

Famed for braised goose, RiRiXiang is a leader in integrated food production in China. Visit their booth to sample award-winning flavors and learn their story.

Johnsonville

Explore premium sausages from Johnsonville, a global favorite since 1945. Discover flavors like Smoked Andouille and join a world leader in meat innovation.

Prolead (Pulida)

Prolead leads in biodegradable products like straws and bags. Visit their booth to explore sustainable packaging solutions certified to global standards.

JINRO

Real Soju Brand, manufactured in Korea and distributed worldwide, is home to JINRO—Korea’s No.1 soju since 1924. Renowned as the “National Drink,” JINRO is the country’s most famous and most consumed alcoholic beverage. Its exceptional quality and heritage have made it a global favorite, consistently topping the International Wine and Spirits Research (IWSR) rankings. For 20 consecutive years, JINRO has been recognized in The Millionaire Club as the world’s largest spirit brand by volume. Experience the authentic taste of Korea with Real Soju Brand—celebrating tradition, quality, and global excellence.

Budweiser

Budweiser, famously known as “The King of Beers,” is an iconic American adjunct lager brewed by Anheuser-Busch in Saint Louis. Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, Budweiser delivers a crisp, refreshing taste enjoyed worldwide. Its name originates from the Budweis region of Bohemia, now České Budějovice in the Czech Republic. Widely available in Malaysia, Budweiser can be purchased online and at various retailers in both bottle and can formats. Larger bundles are also offered, making Budweiser the perfect choice for any occasion.

CUCKOO

CUCKOO is a global leader in home appliances, dedicated to improving lives through innovation and quality. With advanced technology and user-friendly design, we deliver reliable solutions that exceed industry standards and everyday expectations.

A Journey Awaits - See you in Sarawak | 2022 Tourism Destination Video

World Tapas Malaysia 2024 - Cooking Competition

Samuel Goh at Valladolid

WORLD NATIONAL TAPAS & WORLD ASIA TAPAS COMPETITION 2025

KTS Garden Conference Hall

Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

17 - 19 June 2025

Delegation from Valladolid, Spain

Ms. Blanca Jiménez Cuadrillero

Mr. Juan Manuel Guimeráns Rubio

Mr. Rodrigo Criado del Rey Saez

Mr. Angel Pablo Moretón Toquero

Event background

PROGRAM

TIME & DATE

17 - 19 June 2025

(Tue - Thurs)

10.00 AM - 5.00 PM

LOCATION

KTS Garden Conference Hall Kuching Sarawak

TARGET GROUP

COMPETITION PARTICIPANTS

EVENT PARTICIPANTS

TARGETED

2000+

across the 3-days event

OBJECTIVES

Culinary Tourism Spotlight

Global Stage for Local Flavors

Bridging Cultures Through Cuisine

Boosting Trade Through Gastronomy

Celebrating Culinary Creativity

Food. Culture. Compete

INTERNATIONAL TAPAS, FOODS & COFFEE

International Media Projection included but not limited to:

MALAYSIA, EUROPE, USA, SINGAPORE, BRUNEI, CHINA, THAILAND, VIETNAM, INDONESIA, HONG KONG, TAIWAN, MIDDLE EAST

International Foods & Drinks Trade & Exhibition

KUCHING’S UNIQUE HERITAGE

Event Highlights

Featuring the biggest live cooking show hosted in Sarawak covering 16 Asia Countries

2ND NATIONAL TAPAS CHAMPIONSHIP MALAYSIA SARAWAK

1ST ASIA TAPAS COMPETITION ROAD TO VALLADOLID SPAIN

INTERNATIONAL TAPAS, FOOD & DRINKS EXHIBITION & TRADE

BARISTA COMPETITION SUSTAINABLE FOOD WORKSHOPS

Programme Highlights

THE WORLD'S BIGGEST LIVE FOOD COMPETITION (COOKING SHOW)

MEDIA, PROFESSIONAL & INTERNATIONAL PROJECTION

NETWORKING WITH THE BEST OF THE SECTOR GUARANTEED

LATEST FOOD INNOVATIONS AND TRENDS

WORKSHOPS & SATELLITE EVENTS - BARISTA COMPETITIONS

EXCEPTIONAL PRODUCT SHOWCASING & TASTING

SUSTAINED & LONG LASTING RETURN ON INVESTMENT

Event Schedule

Tapas Competition Jurors

Chef Pongcharn "Top" Russell

Chef Michelle Goh

Chef Johnson Wong

Chef Lee Zhe Xi

Chef Abang Abdul Rahman Bin Abang Haji Omar

Chef Jasbir Kaur

Chef Alex Ting

Chef Goh Ah Seng

Chef John Lim

Chef Billy Lee

Speaker Profile

Mr. Zhang Bin Liang

Mr. Victor Ujai Lasam

Ms. Suryati Hj Mahadan

Mr. Roberto Benetello

Mr. David Kong

Ms. Ajeng Indriani

World National Tapas Competition

World Asia Tapas Competition

Exhibitors Profile

Boncafé Malaysia

WE ARE CHUGA 추가

Bodegas Fariña

Maestros Aceituneros

Aljomar

Juvé & Camps

Xoriguer Gin

Vinos y Licores Picos

Bodegas Yzaguirre

BARISTA COMPETITION

SUSTAINABLE FOOD WORKSHOPS

Ethos Connect International Consulting Sdn Bhd
Sarawak International Technical and Vocational Education Association