Bangladeshi chef Ali Abbas Munna judges global culinary event in Lahore

Bangladesh marked a proud global moment as Ali Abbas Munna served as a Rookie Judge at the Pakistan International Culinary Championship 2026 held in Lahore from February 9 to 12.

The Worldchefs-certified Bangladeshi Executive Chef represented the country as a solo delegate at the four-day international competition, becoming one of the youngest culinary professionals to sit alongside global judges in such a prestigious event.

The championship, endorsed by World Association of Chefs' Societies and hosted at the Royal Palm Golf and Country Club, drew more than 5,000 competitors from around ten countries, including professional chefs and culinary students. The event was organised by the Chefs Association of Pakistan with support from the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission.

During the championship, Munna worked as Rookie Judge and Marshal, gaining direct exposure to global judging guidelines, international scoring systems and professional competition management. He observed live cooking battles where chefs demonstrated advanced techniques, plating artistry, hygiene discipline and strict time management under pressure.

The judging panel featured internationally respected culinary leaders including Uwe Micheel along with chefs Mohammad Raes, Tushara Fernando, Aravinda, Awang Razali, Amir and Manzur Bulgari, supported by more than twenty certified global judges.

Munna described the experience as a major milestone in his career and a rare opportunity to understand international culinary standards from inside the judging arena.

Drawing on the exposure, he urged the formation of a government-approved national culinary association in Bangladesh affiliated with Worldchefs to open doors for Bangladeshi chefs and students in global competitions.

Currently, Munna serves as Executive Chef and Group Head of Culinary overseeing multiple food and beverage operations in Bangladesh and holds the prestigious “Master Chef” title from the World MasterChefs Society.