Four Bidayuh chefs to represent Malaysia at Foodec Culinary Competition in Ho Chi Minh City

Willie (centre) together with (from left) chefs Nicky, Robbie, Iana and Janncy during the send-off ceremony at Puncak Borneo MP office recently.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, April 11: Four rising Bidayuh culinary talents from Puncak Borneo are set to represent Malaysia on the international stage at the prestigious Masterchef of Foodex Culinary Competition in Ho Chi Minh City, marking another proud milestone for Sarawak’s growing influence in the global gastronomic scene.

The official send-off ceremony was held at the office of Puncak Borneo MP Willie Mongin, where he personally met the chefs to extend his encouragement and best wishes ahead of their international debut.

According to a media release today, representing the Bidayuh community are chef Iana Akam, chef Robbie Richard Balcarek, chef Janncy Nyohim, and the newest addition to the team, chef Nicky Nelson.

Each chef brings a distinct culinary identity shaped by heritage, innovation, and a shared commitment to elevating Dayak cuisine on the world stage.

Chefs Iana Akam and Nicky Nelson will compete in the Noodle Category, while chefs Robbie Richard Balcarek and Janncy Nyohim will showcase their expertise in the Rice Category.

In addition, Robbie, Iana, and Janncy will join forces in the National Team Category, where they will be challenged to conceptualise and execute a refined five-course menu within just two hours, testing their technical precision, creativity, and teamwork under intense competition pressure.

What sets the team apart is their strong dedication to preserving and promoting Bidayuh culinary heritage. All four chefs will incorporate indigenous ingredients such as Terung Dayak, Bidayuh red rice, Tepus (wild ginger), Sarawak lobsters, and Umai, reinterpreting traditional flavours through a modern culinary lens.

Their participation reflects a growing movement to elevate Sarawak’s native ingredients and traditions onto the global stage.

Speaking at the send-off, Willie expressed pride and confidence in the team.

“I am proud of all four of you for representing Malaysia and our Bidayuh community on the world stage. I am deeply impressed with the achievements you have brought not only to Sarawak but to the nation. May your journey and success continue to inspire many more young talents to follow in your footsteps,” he said.

Their participation not only highlights individual excellence but also symbolises the growing recognition of Bidayuh cuisine as an essential part of Malaysia’s diverse culinary identity.

As they prepare to compete in Ho Chi Minh City, the chefs carry with them not just skill and technique, but also the stories, traditions, and spirit of their community. — DayakDaily