NEWS SIBU — A cookbook celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Sarawak, Malaysia, produced by UCSI University, has earned the prestigious title of ‘Best in the World’ at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2025, held in Portugal.
Titled “Flavours of Sarawak: A Culinary Journey Through the Land of the Hornbills”, the book triumphed in the Best University Press Publication category, beating out entries from over 200 countries. The awards ceremony took place in Lisbon on July 9, 2025.
Sarawak Culinary Book Wins Global Recognition in Portugal
The win marks a significant achievement not only for UCSI University, but also for Malaysia’s food heritage, especially from the often-underrepresented state of Sarawak.
“This recognition puts Sarawak cuisine on the global culinary map and affirms the university’s commitment to preserving local culture through education,” said a representative from UCSI.
About the Book: Celebrating Sarawak’s Unique Flavours
The award-winning cookbook features:
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Traditional Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, and Malay recipes
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Modern interpretations by UCSI culinary students
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High-resolution photography capturing authentic ingredients and cooking methods
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Stories behind each dish to highlight Sarawak’s diverse ethnic heritage
The book was a collaboration between UCSI’s Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, local chefs, and cultural historians.
What Are the Gourmand Awards?
Penghargaan Gourmand World Cookbook Awards
, yang didirikan pada tahun 1995, merupakan ajang bergengsi yang menghargai karya terbaik dalam dunia kuliner global. Dijuluki sebagai “Oscar-nya buku masak”, penghargaan ini merayakan buku masakan, anggur, dan tayangan televisi kuliner dari berbagai belahan dunia.
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Setiap tahun, ribuan entri diterima dari lebih dari 200 negara, menjadikannya wadah penting bagi penulis, chef, dan penerbit untuk mendapatkan pengakuan internasional. Penghargaan ini tak hanya menyoroti estetika dan kelezatan resep, tetapi juga memperhatikan nilai budaya dan edukatif yang terkandung dalam karya kuliner. Banyak pemenang yang kemudian berhasil menjangkau audiens global dan meningkatkan profil mereka di industri gastronomi. Dengan fokus pada keberagaman dan inovasi, Gourmand Awards menjadi simbol kehormatan dan eksistensi dari kekayaan kuliner dunia.
