About Me
I originally trained as a chef at Stamford College in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with a focus on classical French cuisine. I subsequently trained in the kitchen at Carcosa Seri Negara – one of Kuala Lumpur’s leading five star boutique hotels.
My main achievements have been the establishment and successful operation of two restaurants: Champor-Champor in Langkawi, Malaysia (1994-1997) – and its subsequent namesake Champor-Champor London Bridge, in London (2000-2011). Both of these restaurants built up a loyal following, with numerous prestigious reviews, accolades and awards. (See a selection on my Press page.)
During my years at Champor-Champor London, I also established popular Saturday afternoon cooking classes, where small groups get a hands-on approach to Malay/Malaysian and ‘Champor-Champor’ cuisine.
I have participated in a number of public cooking demonstrations, including Selfridges, Oxford Street, London; Masterchef Live at Olympia, London; and the International Food Exhibition (IFE) in Excel. I also had a slot in a TV programme ‘Fab Pads’ cooking in jewellery artist/sculptor, Andrew Logan’s exquisite home.
During the past twenty years I have travelled extensively throughout my own country, Malaysia, and the surrounding Southeast Asian countries (including Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, China, India and Sri Lanka). During these travels I have always made a point of seeking out new culinary inspiration and researching local delicacies, food ingredients, and ‘secret’ local recipes.