Finalists have one hour to prepare their signature dishes.
The first-ever Genting Culinary Classic 2025 wrapped up on a high note at the Genting International Showroom (GISR) on June 10th and 11th. This joint effort by Resorts World Genting and the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA) Cooking Competition drew an impressive number of entries reflecting a strong and growing interest in culinary talent and creativity across the region.
Following a rigorous nationwide selection process, 20 exceptional finalists were chosen to compete in the Genting Culinary Classic 2025, where they will showcase their culinary mastery under pressure. Among this year’s standout participants were Chef Low Wee Keong, who, despite losing his sight nearly two decades ago, moved audiences with his resilience and heartfelt dish, former MY FM DJ Emely Poon, who impressed judges with her dedication to traditional Malaysian cuisine, and several self-taught home cooks.
(From left) Lo Tshun Ket (First Runner-Up), Budiman Bistari (Champion), KOL chef Jia Le Woh, celebrity chef Martin Yan, Samuel Lee (Deputy Director General, Promotions II, Tourism Malaysia), Spencer Lee (EVP of Sales, Marketing and PR, Resorts World Genting), MasterChef Chef Jo, Jennifer Ong (CEO of HAPA Group), Chef Supachai Saisoigeon (Resorts World Genting), Lim Boon Ghee (Third Place), Ahmad Fairul Aimie (Fourth place), and Wong Cher Yoon (Fifth place) pose for a celebratory photo.
The event was further elevated by the presence of celebrity chef Martin Yan, who not only served as a judge but also captivated the audience with a live cook-off, presenting a specially curated signature dish. From 1st July to 30th September 2025, Chef Yan’s creations will be featured at High Line and Old Friends Restaurant, alongside the winning competition dishes available at selected F&B outlets across the resort.
Adding prestige to the occasion, the event was graced by Deputy Director General, Promotions II of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Samuel Lee. His presence underscored the significance of the event in promoting Malaysia’s culinary diversity and creative potential on an international stage. In line with Tourism Malaysia’s “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign, the Genting Culinary Classic aims to position Malaysia as a must-visit destination for food lovers from around the world, spotlighting the country’s diverse culinary heritage and rising talents.
Centre) Celebrity chef Martin Yan and Spencer Lee (EVP of Sales, Marketing and PR, Resorts World Genting) pose with all 20 finalists of the Genting Culinary Classic 2025.
The top five finalists took home prizes worth up to RM64,000. In fifth place was Wong Cher Yoon with his creative take, Crab Alchemy, Golden Treasure of Shark Fin au Gratin. Fourth place went to Ahmad Fairul Aimie for his vibrant Nasi Kerabu Utara bersama Ikan Bakar & Sambal Kelapa. Lim Boon Ghee earned the second runner-up spot with his refined dish, Sugarcane Smoked Bidor Duck Breast with Nasi Kerabu Duck Liver Onigiri and Budu Lime Vinaigrette Ulam. Coming in as first runner-up, Lo Tshun Ket impressed with Mee Tauhu Tawau. Taking the grand prize of RM25,000 in cash and prizes was Budiman Bistari, whose standout creation, Ayam Goleh Buah Kulim, won over the judges with its bold flavours and thoughtful execution.
“The Genting Culinary Classic 2025 was more than just a competition. We’re proud to champion local and regional talent while elevating Malaysia’s position on the global culinary map,” said Spencer Lee, Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Public Relations at Resorts World Genting.
Proudly presented by Resorts World Genting, in collaboration with HAPA and in association with Tourism Malaysia, the resounding success of the Genting Culinary Classic 2025 marks the beginning of what is set to become an annual celebration of culinary mastery at Resorts World Genting. Building on this momentum, the Genting Culinary Classic is set to return for its second edition next year, continuing its mission to spotlight culinary excellence.
For more information, please visit https://www.gentingskyworlds.com/
