Food Institute of Malaysia (FIM) congratulates its alumnus, Muhammad Syafiq Syahmi Saidon, on his outstanding achievement after winning the Gold Medal and being crowned Overall Champion in the Team Category at the Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge (TUCC) 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Muhammad Syafiq Syahmi is a graduate of the Diploma in Culinary Arts (DCA), September 2021 intake.
He has brought pride to Malaysia on the international culinary stage as part of Team Lotus’s Malaysia.
The team, also comprising Chef Leo Wong and Chef Yuventhiran Pillai A/L Arumugam Pillai, represented Malaysia at the competition held from 26 to 30 May 2026 in conjunction with THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani in Bangkok.
The Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge (TUCC) is one of Asia’s most prestigious culinary competitions and is recognised by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS).
The 12th edition of the competition brought together more than 400 professional chefs from various countries, competing across multiple categories that tested skill, creativity, and innovation.
Notably, Team Lotus’s Malaysia emerged as the only team to be awarded a Gold Medal in the Team Category, ahead of other teams that received Silver Medals.
The team was also crowned Overall Champion of the Team Category after securing the highest cumulative score.
In the Asian Gourmet Challenge, the Malaysian team impressed the judges with a menu showcasing Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage in a modern and creative presentation.
The dishes included Kerabu Pucuk Paku Salad Roll with Toasted Coconut Emulsion, Mackerel Otak-Otak Mousseline with Otak-Otak Sauce, Tom Yum Soup with Prawn Mosaic, Marinated Lamb Patty in Rogan Josh Sauce, “Boxing” Chicken with Green Masala Curry, and Leum Kleun Lava dessert with Thai Tea Semi-Freddo.
Muhammad Syafiq Syahmi’s achievement reflects the quality of training and education provided by the Food Institute of Malaysia, which continues to produce graduates who are competitive at a global level.
This achievement also serves as an inspiration for FIM students to continue striving for excellence in the culinary field.