As the Vice President of Worldchefs, it is with great pride and excitement that we welcome chefs from across Malaysia, Asia, and around the world to Battle of the Chefs 2026 in Penang — a milestone year marking the 20th edition of this iconic culinary competition.

For many of us, this event is more than a contest. It is a community, a proving ground, and a celebration of the craft we love. My own journey with Battle of the Chefs began at the 12th edition in 2009, and returning now to witness its evolution into a world- class platform is both inspiring and deeply meaningful. What started as a vibrant regional showcase has grown into a respected international arena where skill, passion, and creativity take centre stage.

This year’s anniversary edition honours two decades of culinary excellence, mentorship, and camaraderie. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or stepping into the arena for the first time, you are part of a legacy built by thousands of chefs who have sharpened their skills, pushed boundaries, and lifted one another higher.

As you prepare to compete, learn, and connect, we invite you to embrace the spirit that has defined Battle of the Chefs which started in 1988 – some 38 years ago! Professionalism, respect, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

The Challenge lies in the skills of the competitors for the Battle, as they need to showcase their talents to a panel of Worldchefs’ International judges, the ‘live kitchen’ has many classes for you to chose from and the pastry boys are in heaven with what they need to produce, we have the talented confectionary, and who can forget the knife skills of the vegetable and fruit carvers. All this under a great team of volunteers, ensuring you have the best opportunity to showcase your skills.

As it is my honour to be the Chief Judge for the event, I look forward to working with all the jury members, both international and local, along with the people behind the scenes, but what is more important for me, is witnessing the passion and the skills of the competitors and having the opportunity to say ‘Hello’ to everyone. I have a close affiliation with Penang, which was one of the first places I visited when I became the Continental Director of Asia, to me it is the Pearl of Asia and the hospitality is second to none!

I will see everyone in Penang 21st – 24th October 2026, we will celebrate International Chefs Day and the challenges with the Battle of the Chefs as a united family!

Happy Cooking !