Mr. Andy Cuthbert, Congress Committee Chairman
Mr. Eric Neo, President of Singapore Chefs Association
Ladies and Gentlemen
Introduction
1. Good morning, and happy International Chefs Day! I am delighted to join you at this year’s Worldchefs Congress & Expo. To the 600 delegates from over 70 countries and regions who share a passion for the culinary arts, welcome to Singapore!
A Global Culinary Convergence
2. For 96 years, Worldchefs has been a unifying force in the culinary world, bringing together a global network of professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards of the craft. You foster collaboration and innovation, preserve culinary traditions, and nurture future generations of chefs.
3. Singapore is honoured to be a part of this journey. Our city is known as a food paradise and home to excellent culinary skills. You will discover a rich tapestry of flavours here - from our beloved hawker food to renowned fine dining. Our chefs take pride in celebrating our diverse culture and heritage while embracing innovative approaches to cuisine. These efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to delivering authentic, high-quality gastronomic experiences. As a global food capital, we continue to scale new culinary heights and are inspired by the incredible talents gathered here.
Evolving Culinary Trends
4. Over the next few days, we will hear from renowned speakers and gain insights into new trends and tastes shaping the culinary world. From wellness-oriented menus and sustainable food practices to cooking with technology, these developments highlight the need for chefs to stay relevant and ahead of the game.
5. Cooking is also about honing one’s craft and learning from the best. This year, at the Worldchefs’ Global Chefs Challenge, we will witness the finest talents showcasing their mastery of the culinary arts. I’m looking forward to the launch of the inaugural Global Vegan Chefs Challenge. I am sure many exciting and new dishes will emerge at the competition. All the best to the competitors!
Legacy Beyond the Events
6. Besides fostering culinary success, the Worldchefs Congress 2024 is using food to do good and benefit society. It has partnered with the Singapore Chefs' Association (SCA) and World Chefs Without Borders to support the National Kidney Foundation (NKF)’s 55th anniversary Charity Gala Dinner. The event showcases Michelin-starred chefs and aims to raise S$1 million for some 5,700 dialysis patients in Singapore. This initiative exemplifies how food connects people across borders and organisations to benefit the larger good.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Chefs
7. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the SCA for the successful Worldchefs event. Nurturing and showcasing talented chefs in Singapore energises our food capital and inspires us with fresh and novel ideas. We thank you for representing and serving our community of chefs. Your contributions to fostering connections and nurturing promising young talent within and beyond Singapore are invaluable.
8. In closing, the culinary profession is an art of precision that entails superb creativity and high discipline. For those who embrace it, the culinary world offers not just a career but a journey filled with endless possibilities. To both seasoned chefs and emerging talents, may this congress fire up your passion and deepen your commitment to achieving the highest standards of excellence in culinary skills.
9. And to our friends visiting from overseas, I hope you will have the opportunity to taste and savour Singapore’s exciting world of culinary delights. Thank you.