Culinary events in Penang showcase Maldivian cuisine and Malaysian gastronomy

The Chefs Guild of Maldives participated in the 2nd Worldchefs – Asian Chefs Charity Event held at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Penang, Malaysia. Representing the Maldives, chefs Fathimath Umar, Ishaq Solih, and Mariyam Shaazy prepared 200 portions of traditional dishes, including Kandukukulhu, Kaliya Birinjee, and Kopeefathu Satani, for an audience of international judges and guests.

The charity event supported The 2 Way Centre in Penang, a non-profit organization assisting children with special educational needs. The participation coincided with International Chefs Day and served as part of the official welcome for the 20th Battle of the Chefs 2026.

In a separate industry development, the 21st Asian King of Catering Food Guide ‘Likes Ranking’ and Asia TOP Tourism Gourmet Awards were also held in Penang. The ceremony presented 116 industry honors to food and beverage brands and culinary ambassadors. The event, supported by Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, aims to bolster food tourism in support of the Visit Malaysia 2026 initiative.