By Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH — The culinary industry holds strong potential to become a major contributor to Malaysia’s economic growth, said Perak Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He noted that, beyond its economic contribution, the industry also plays a vital role in talent development and nurturing human capital, particularly among young people.
Speaking at the launch of the Malaysian Culinary World Cup (MCWC) 2025 at Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah in Meru Raya, Saarani said the international-level event serves as a crucial platform to enhance young talents’ skills while exposing them to digital technology in culinary arts, including online food marketing and virtual training.
“MCWC 2025 is not just a cooking competition. It fuses traditional and modern elements, enriching the creative expression of participants.
“The international stature of this event also strengthens Perak’s position as the national hub for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), in line with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda,” he said.
The competition features 65 categories, drawing more than 800 participants from 16 countries. A total of 115 judges from 25 countries, including 60 internationally certified local judges, are involved in the event.
Saarani also highlighted Perak’s comprehensive and structured TVET ecosystem, which supports talent development within the culinary field.
He urged more young people to view culinary arts as a professional and respectable career path and called on all stakeholders to support the growth of Malaysia’s food industry.
The launch event was also attended by representatives from the Malaysian Bumiputera Chefs Association (MBCA), Global Chef Union, and strategic agencies, including PASAK, STeP, the Perak State Development Corporation (PKNPk), and the Perak State Education Department (JPN).
