Kenny Gan finished third in the 10th World Tapas Championships with a pancake.

VALLADOLID, 12 Nov: The Sarawak-inspired tapa led Malaysian representative Cef Kenny Gan to third place at the 10th World Tapas Championships in Valladolid, Spain, today.

The Miri-born chef said he was happy to bring Malaysia to the podium, although he felt there was still room for improvement.

"Honestly, I think I could do better, but third place is still a great achievement. We brought home the trophy and now Malaysia is on the podium", he told TVS.

Chief Kenny Gan, took third place at the 10th World Tapas Championships in Valladolid, Spain today. TVS photos

Despite the success, Kenny faced a moment of anxiety on race day when four rice-keeper statues that were part of his meal offerings broke.

"We've been searching for glue to reattach it. I'm worried the gum didn't dry. It was a worry at the time, but in the end everything went well and it was worth the effort", he said.

Kenny also paid tribute to TVS, Ethos Connect, the head of Sarawak's delegation to Valladolid, Sim Ling Ling and his family members who came to Valladolid for support.

Chief Kenny Gan, took third place at the 10th World Tapas Championships in Valladolid, Spain today. TVS photos

"When I come home, I want to tell everyone how Sarawak managed to get on the world stage", he said.

For the two-course meal, Kenny used wild patina from the Twelve River, Kapit, as a main ingredient.

He turned it into a patin mousse-based croquet and used Bario rice to squeeze pancake made from fish bones, shrimp skin and cantane flowers.

Meanwhile, the Head of Sarawak Gateway to Borneo Delegation in Valladolid, Sim Ling Ling, said the achievement reflects the team's efforts in introducing Sarawak food at an international forum.

"Sarawak can. Last year we were fifth, and this time we're third. Many of Sarawak's favorites are shouldering our food to the world stage.

"Congratulations to Chief Kenny Gan. His dedication to perfecting the dish enabled us to reach this conclusion", he said.

Kenny's achievements follow the success of Chief Liew Kit Kiet who took Malaysia to the top five in last year's edition.