Sunway University’s Chef Soon Pau Voon Recognised with Worldchefs Lifetime Achievement Award
Chef Soon Pau Voon, a prominent figure in the global culinary community, who is also a senior teaching fellow at Sunway University’s School of Hospitality and Service Management, has been awarded the Worldchefs Lifetime Achievement Award at the 40th Worldchefs Congress & Expo. The award highlights his contributions to the culinary arts, education, and sustainability, and his efforts to promote Malaysian cuisine internationally.
The Worldchefs Lifetime Achievement Award is a prestigious recognition given by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) to individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the culinary industry throughout their careers, signifying exceptional leadership and dedication to the culinary profession; it is considered the highest honour within the Worldchefs organisation.
Chef Soon, who joined the School of Hospitality and Service Management in 2009, plays a key role in developing future culinary talent. His research includes studies on the anthropology of food, exploring themes such as feasting, commensality, and the social history of Malaysian cuisine. He has also authored and co-authored works such as The Edible Waste: A Cookbook (Best Food Waste Book In The World, Gourmand Book Awards 2022), Planet Saving Meals (2024) and Stripes of Glory: Malaysian Chefs in Action on the Global Culinary Stage (2023).
As a certified trainer South East Asia’s Pioneer for the Worldchefs Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals curriculum, Chef Soon has been a strong advocate for environmentally friendly practices in the culinary field. His initiatives focus on reducing food waste, supporting local producers, and encouraging sustainable sourcing.
“I was surprised when my name was called to the stage to accept the award. As a proud member of Sunway University, I am grateful that my work and contributions to Worldchefs are acknowledged and recognized. May this award be an inspiration to my peers and my fellow young chefs,” said Chef Soon.
The Lifetime Achievement Award acknowledges Chef Soon’s extensive contributions to the culinary arts and his efforts to integrate sustainability and cultural preservation into his work.
