The prestigious World Top Gourmet Awards 2024 concluded with a grand celebration, recognizing 108 of the most outstanding and influential figures in the F&B and culinary industry. The event, held on 3 October 2024, drew a remarkable audience of nearly 1,000 attendees, including master chefs, top-tier restaurateurs, and representatives from leading global brands across various countries.
The event honored the excellence, creativity, and innovation that have set these 108 awardees apart in the highly competitive F&B and culinary world. Winners hailed from diverse culinary backgrounds, representing both long-established and emerging talents, all of whom have left an indelible mark on the global gourmet scene.
Having Deputy Director General Promotion, Tourism Malaysia – Mr Samuel Lee as the Guest of Honour further elevates the significance of the event. His presence, along with distinguished chefs like Martin Yan, Jeffrey Tan, OAM and Thomas A. Gugler, shows that this is not just a celebration of F&B and culinary excellence but also an event of national and international importance. It’s likely that the Deputy Director General Promotion’s participation highlights the government’s support for the F&B and hospitality industry. Their presence adds a significant level of prestige, given their vast experience and influence in the F&B world. Hosting these top chefs signals the importance and high standards of the food awards.
· Martin Yan is a renowned International Chinese Culinary Icon, known for his television program Yan Can Cook and his efforts to popularize Asian cuisine globally.
· Jeffrey Tan is recognized for his effort in promoting cooking for charity worldwide is a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
· Thomas A. Gugler is the President of the World Association of Chefs Societies (Worldchefs), an international platform promoting culinary excellence and education.
It was an exciting and high-profile occasion with many top brands, master chefs, and prominent personalities being recognized. Among the awardees were F&B brands such as Oriental Kopi, DKing, De.Wan 1958 by Chef Wan, Ishin, Andaman Seafood Village, M Cuisine, RT Pastry, Black Tap, Dai Jin Dining, Vanilla Crepe, Peranakan
Place, Abang J, and world-renowned master chefs such as Master Chef Professor Emeritus Bill Sy (USA), Master Chef Au Kam-Wo (China), Celebrity Chef Prof. Zam (Malaysia), Master Chef David Dong-Hyun Kim (South Korea), whose presence underscored the significance of the awards. With such a distinguished lineup of awardees, the event has once again proven itself as one of the culinary industry’s most anticipated and respected accolades.
“We are immensely proud to recognize the exceptional achievements of this year’s 108 award winners. Their contributions have shaped the way the world experiences food, and their commitment to excellence continues to set new standards in the F&B and culinary industry.”” said Dr Peggy Chong, President for the World Top Gourmet Awards.
A Boost for Tourism and Economic Growth
In collaboration with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the World Top Gourmet Awards highlighted Malaysia’s rich and diverse culinary heritage, emphasizing the country’s unique position as a gastronomic hub in Southeast Asia. By showcasing Malaysia’s world-class chefs and dining experiences, the awards ceremony is poised to play a key role in attracting food enthusiasts and tourists from around the world.
“Culinary tourism is a powerful driver of economic growth, and through this partnership with the World Top Gourmet Awards, we aim to showcase Malaysia’s rich food culture to a global audience,” said Mr Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General of Promotion, Tourism Malaysia. “As we gear up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, events like these help promote our local talents and cuisine, encouraging travelers to explore our country’s diverse offerings.”
World Gourmet is also announcing the upcoming Explore Nation app, the President Dr Peggy Chong said, “We are witnessing a new era in promoting lifestyle products and services. This app will help local merchants and restaurateurs reach a wider audience, showcasing their products and services not just to Malaysians, but to an international market. This kind of technological innovation is essential in driving growth in our F&B and tourism industries.”