World Gourmet Launches 8th World Gourmet Awards, Introduces Inaugural "Top Taste Award" 2026

  

World Gourmet Launches 8th World Gourmet Awards, Introduces Inaugural Top Taste Award" 2026

Strengthens Support for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 Through Culinary Tourism

KUALA LUMPUR, 23 July 2026 – World Gourmet officially launched the 8th World Top Gourmet Awards 2026 at the Andaman Grand Ballroom, Kuala Lumpur, introducing the inaugural Top Taste Award while reaffirming its commitment to supporting Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) through gastronomy, culinary tourism and international collaboration.

The launch was officiated by Guest of Honour Tuan Azmi Abdullah, Senior Deputy Director of the Package Development Division, alongside Chef of Honour Master Chef Dr. Martin Yan, the internationally acclaimed culinary icon whose influence has inspired generations of chefs worldwide.

Founded in 2017, World Gourmet has become a leading international platform celebrating culinary excellence, recognising outstanding achievements across the food and beverage industry, and fostering global partnerships. Over the past seven editions, the awards have honoured exceptional chefs, restaurants, hospitality professionals, entrepreneurs and F&B brands while raising industry standards.

As Malaysia celebrates VM2026, World Gourmet continues to position the nation's diverse food culture as a key tourism asset. Through its awards, culinary exchanges and strategic partnerships, the organisation promotes Malaysian cuisine internationally, strengthens culinary diplomacy, and creates opportunities for tourism, trade and investment.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Peggy Chong, President and Founder of World Gourmet, said the awards not only celebrate excellence but also provide local businesses with valuable international exposure while attracting global chefs, industry leaders and visitors to experience Malaysia's rich culinary heritage.

A major highlight was the debut of the Top Taste Award, created to recognise outstanding independent food and beverage products. The new category honours excellence in taste, quality, authenticity, innovation, consistency, packaging and consumer appeal, while encouraging higher manufacturing standards, supporting SMEs and opening doors to export opportunities.

The event also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between World Gourmet and iFood, represented by Founder Mr. Dicky Lee, to expand international exhibitions, trade missions and business networking. In addition, Prof. Dato' Chef Zamzani Abdul Wahab (Chef Zam) was appointed World Gourmet Ambassador 2026, reinforcing efforts to promote Malaysian cuisine globally. Chef Zam also presented a live demonstration of the traditional Ketupat Sotong Terengganu.

The 8th World Top Gourmet Awards Gala Dinner will be held on 22 October 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, followed by the 9th World Top Gourmet Awards Gala Dinner on 21 November 2026 in Guangzhou, China, further strengthening World Gourmet's role in connecting the global culinary community while showcasing Malaysia as a premier gastronomic destination.

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