Mayor receives awards for championing culinary excellence

KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng received distinguished awards at the prestigious Chaine des Rotisseurs – Bailliage de Malaisie Annual Gala, held on Oct 26 in Kuala Lumpur.

The event, organised by the world-renowned gastronomic association Chaine des Rotisseurs, celebrated influential leaders in the culinary arts and gastronomy.

At the induction ceremony, Wee was awarded the prestigious titles of Officer Commandeur and Pair De La Chaine. The Officer Commandeur title, exclusive to members with at least 30 years of commitment, honours dedication to the organisation’s values and goals.

Meanwhile, the distinguished Pair De La Chaine designation, conferred with approval from the President in Paris, reflects Wee’s exceptional impact in championing culinary excellence.

“For me, this recognition is a testament to Kuching’s vibrant culinary community and to Chaine’s influence in fostering our city’s gastronomic growth.

“It is a privilege to stand alongside our city’s talented chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts, and to bring Kuching’s culinary heritage to an international audience,” he said in a statement.

The awards were presented by Bailli Delegue of China, Allen Wong, acknowledging Wee’s dedication to preserving and promoting Malaysia’s unique culinary heritage.

In the statement, MBKS noted that the mayor has been a key proponent in the effort to designate Kuching as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy—a recognition made possible through collaborative efforts with local chefs, food artisans, cultural advocates, and community leaders.

Their combined contributions have elevated Kuching’s culinary reputation on the global stage, inspiring a new generation of culinary enthusiasts in the city.

Founded in 1928 and inspired by the French Royal Guild of Goose Roasters, Chaine des Rotisseurs is an esteemed international association with over 50,000 members in 89 countries.

Renowned for its commitment to promoting fine dining and fostering camaraderie within the culinary field, the association recognises members who demonstrate exceptional contributions to gastronomy.

Other Kuching Bailliage members also honoured included Datuk Dr Julian Wee, who received the honorary title of Bailli d’Honneur for his leadership within the Kuching Bailliage, and Yap Han Boon, who was recognised with the honorary rank of Grand Officier for his contributions to the association.

The Bailliage de Malaisie Annual Gala gathered distinguished chefs, culinary experts, and notable members of Chaine des Rotisseurs, marking an evening of celebration for excellence within the culinary field.