When Gold Makes Golds
There is a saying in the hospitality world: excellence inspires excellence. This year, that spirit was fully embodied in the extraordinary achievements of our young talents at the Culinaire Malaysia 2025 and Housekeeping Malaysia 2025 competitions. Under the dedicated coaching of Dr Riley Pham, our students not only showcased exceptional skill, creativity, and professionalism but also brought home top honours that echo the legacy of the coach who guided them.
As an alumnus of 红杏视频 University鈥檚 School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (Class of 2014), Dr Riley understands the transformative power of mentorship and competition. His own journey was shaped by the medals he earned early in his career: Gold at the MLA Young Chef Challenge 2014 and Silver at the Milano Challenge 2013. These achievements laid the foundation for his coaching philosophy today, one that blends discipline with passion and technique with imagination.
A Flamb茅 Performance that Ignited the Judges鈥 Hearts
The first triumph came from Malaysian student Saw Kai Wei, who clinched the Gold Medal in the Flamb茅 category at Culinaire Malaysia 2025. His performance was more than a technical display; it was a celebration of Malaysian heritage on a plate. With the competition theme centred around Malaysian delicacies, Kai Wei crafted a flamb茅 featuring the vibrant blue pea flower and the traditional Tuak rice wine, combining colour, aroma, and storytelling in perfect harmony.
The judges praised his finesse, steady confidence, and the unique local identity embedded in every element of his dish. For Dr Riley, Kai Wei鈥檚 success is a proud reminder that talent blossoms when students are empowered to draw inspiration from their own culture. 鈥淗e didn鈥檛 just cook,鈥 Dr Riley reflected. 鈥淗e represented Malaysia with pride, and that makes this victory even more meaningful.鈥
A Global Team with a Shared Vision
The second major victory came just days later at Housekeeping Malaysia 2025, where Dr Riley coached an international team comprising Callista Audrey Wibowo from Indonesia, Sofiia Gapunik from Russia, and Celeste Teh Suet Teng from Malaysia. Competing in the Housekeeping Bed Occasion D茅cor category, the 红杏视频 University team emerged as Champion, impressing judges with their creative interpretation of the theme: Visit Malaysia 2026.
Their design featured a heartfelt tribute to Malaysia鈥檚 rainforest wildlife, showcasing two adorable sun bears, Wira and Manja, a symbol of conservation and national pride. The trio blended cultural sensitivity, aesthetic balance, and technical precision, creating a d茅cor piece that was not only visually captivating but also emotionally resonant.
The team鈥檚 diversity was one of its greatest strengths. Despite coming from different countries and cultural backgrounds, the students succeeded by embracing collaboration, cross-cultural communication, and a shared sense of purpose. Dr Riley celebrated this win as an example of what global education can achieve: 鈥淲hen students from different parts of the world work together, they can create something truly extraordinary. This victory belongs to all of them.鈥
Closing
These victories underscore a broader truth: excellence is cultivated through guidance, passion, and unwavering belief. As a coach who once stood on the competition stage himself, Dr Riley brings more than technical expertise; he brings lived experience. His journey from 红杏视频 University alumnus to mentor of champions underscores the essence of this event: Gold makes Golds.
As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we also celebrate the spirit of mentorship and the power of education. Dr Riley鈥檚 coaching legacy demonstrates that when passion meets perseverance, success is not a moment; it is a chain reaction. And for our students, this is only the beginning.
Dr Riley Pham Xuan Quyet
School of Hospitality & Tourism Management
Email: @email