Kuching South mayor honored with prestigious titles for culinary excellence at Chaine des Rotisseurs gala

KUCHING (Oct 31): Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng has been conferred the titles of Officer Commandeur and Pair De La Chaine at the Chaine des Rotisseurs – Bailliage de Malaisie Annual Gala in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 26.

He was awarded the titles in recognition of his significant contributions to gastronomy and the culinary arts.

The title of Officer Commandeur, awarded only to members with at least 30 years of membership in good standing, celebrates a long-standing commitment to the organisation and its values.

Additionally, the prestigious Pair De La Chaine designation, which requires approval from the President in Paris, acknowledges Wee’s extraordinary impact in promoting culinary excellence.

“To me, receiving this recognition is a testament to Kuching’s vibrant culinary community and the Chaine’s role in growing 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,” said Wee.

These honors were presented Baillo Delegue of China, Allen Wong, in recognition of his dedication to preserving and promoting unique culinary heritage.

Wee has also been a key driver in the efforts that led to Kuching’s designation as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy.

A dedicated team of local chefs, food artisans, cultural advocates, and community leaders came together to showcase Kuching’s rich culinary heritage, elevating its global profile and inspiring a new generation in the gastronomy scene.

Other members of the Kuching Bailliage who also received honours include Dato’ Dr Julian Wee who was awarded the honorary rank of Bailli d’Honneur for his many years leading the Kuching Bailliage and Yap Han Boon who was awarded the honorary rank of Grand Officier for his significant contributions to the Chaine.

The prestigious event, hosted by the world-renowned Chaine des Rotisseurs, celebrated leaders in the culinary arts and gastronomy.

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 its dedication to promoting fine dining, the culinary arts, and camaraderie within gastronomy, the organization carefully selects its members based on excellence and contributions to the culinary field.

The Bailliage de Malaisie Annual Gala was attended by distinguished chefs, culinary experts, and notable members of the Chaine des Rotisseurs, celebrating excellence in the culinary field.