By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 31: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng was recently honoured with distinguished awards recognising leaders in the culinary arts and gastronomy at the Chaine des Rotisseurs – Bailliage de Malaisie annual gala in Kuala Lumpur.
During the induction ceremony, Wee was conferred the titles of Officer Commandeur and Pair De La Chaine, celebrating his significant contributions to gastronomy.
The title of Officer Commandeur is awarded only to members with at least 30 years of membership in good standing, reflecting a long-standing commitment to the organisation’s values.
Additionally, the prestigious Pair De La Chaine designation, requiring approval from the President in Paris, acknowledged Wee’s extraordinary impact on promoting culinary excellence.
These honours were presented by Allen Wong, Bailli Delegue of China, in recognition of Wee’s dedication to preserving and promoting Sarawak’s unique culinary heritage.
“Receiving this recognition is a testament to Kuching’s vibrant culinary community and the Chaine’s role in enhancing the city’s culinary excellence.
“I am honoured to stand alongside our city’s talented chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts in bringing Kuching’s rich heritage to an international audience,” he said in a statement today.
Wee has been a key driver behind Kuching’s designation as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy.
This achievement resulted from a collaborative effort involving local chefs, food artisans, cultural advocates, and community leaders who tirelessly showcased Kuching’s rich culinary heritage.
Their collective endeavor has not only elevated Kuching on the global stage but also strengthened its culinary identity and inspired a new generation within the gastronomy scene.
The Chaine des Rotisseurs, an esteemed international gastronomic association founded in 1928 and inspired by the French Royal Guild of Goose Roasters, boasts over 50,000 members across 89 countries.
Known for promoting fine dining, the culinary arts, and camaraderie within gastronomy, the organisation carefully selects its members based on their excellence and contributions to the culinary field.
Other members of the Kuching Bailliage who received honours include Dato Dr Julian Wee, awarded the honorary rank of Bailli d’Honneur for his years of leadership, and Yap Han Boon, awarded the honorary rank of Grand Officier for his significant contributions to the Chaine.
The Bailliage de Malaisie Annual Gala brought together distinguished chefs, culinary experts, and notable members of the Chaine des Rotisseurs, all celebrating excellence in the culinary arts. — DayakDaily
