Perak Community College Shines At Vietnam Culinary Challenge, Wins 14 Awards

IPOH, April 2 (Bernama) -- The Perak Culinary Arts Academy (PCAA) team from Kolej Komuniti Chenderoh (KKCP) clinched 14 awards at the Vietnam Culinary Challenge (VCC) 2026, held at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, last Friday.

PCAA@KKCP Director Meor M. Sharifuddin Meor Shukri said the achievement elevates Malaysia as a top international competitor, challenging participants from Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and Australia in various technical categories during the three-day event.

“This success embodies ‘Excellence Without Compromise,’ the core principle of PCAA@KKCP.

“The perseverance of (lecturers) Khairul Ashikhin Mohd Kamil, 46, and Muhammad Syafiq Jamaluddin, 35, together with our students, demonstrates that Malaysian TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) talent can not only compete, but also lead at an international level,” he said in a statement.

The team, comprising lecturers and students, included Muhammad Amar Mohd Salim, Umar Ridha Nirul Azwan, and Muhammad Amzar Asrol, all aged 20 to 25.

Meor M. Sharifuddin said the team earned four gold, four silver, and five bronze medals, as well as one diploma, in various categories such as Asian-Inspired Noodles, Chinese Cuisine, and Individual Fruit and Vegetable Display.

“It not only brings honour to the institution, but also reinforces the country’s reputation as a centre for culinary excellence in Southeast Asia and globally,” he added.

Meanwhile, PCAA@KKCP, in a post on its official Facebook page, said the success reflected the team's high level of commitment and dedication.

It added that the achievement serves as proof that the academy continues to excel in producing world-class TVET talent capable of competing globally.

The 11th edition of the VCC attracted over 203 participants and 401 entries from 19 provinces and cities across Vietnam, as well as international participants from Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Japan, and Australia.

-- BERNAMA