JOHOR BAHRU: A young Malaysian chef is making waves in the global culinary scene after clinching gold at the prestigious World Chefs Championship (WCC) 2025 held at Persada Johor International Convention Centre.

Representing ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri, 27-year-old Muhammad Syahirefuddin Mohamad Sairi — fondly known as Chef Alfredo — secured top honours in the WCC 92 Pasta Challenge with his standout dish: “Squid Ink Spaghetti with Calamari Pesto.”

Held by the World Chef Competition Malaysia (WCCM), the event drew professional chefs from 17 countries competing in over 225 categories. For Chef Alfredo, this was not only his debut on the international stage but also a milestone in a career that’s rapidly on the rise.

“It was surreal,” Chef Alfredo told ApaKhabar TV. “I entered just to gain experience and learn from the best. I never expected to walk away with gold. Now, I’m more motivated than ever to push my boundaries and come back stronger next year.”

A native of Kulai, Johor, and a diploma in Culinary Arts graduate from KYPJ, Chef Alfredo has accumulated over seven years of industry experience.

Before joining ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri as Demi Chef nine months ago, he honed his skills at Holmes Hotel, Forest City Golf, and even in a supervisory capacity at Rumah Perlindungan Fitrah Qaseh.

His signature culinary style leans toward pasta and Western comfort food, with standout creations like Authentic Carbonara and Beef Wellington. His passion for cooking, he says, is deeply rooted in family.

“My grandparents used to cook at kenduri events. Seeing people come together over food always stuck with me,” he recalled. “That feeling—when someone truly enjoys your dish—is what keeps me going. That’s the real reward.”

The nickname “Chef Alfredo” was born during his job interview at ibis Styles, when a playful question about the difference between Alfredo and Carbonara caught him off guard. His confident explanation impressed the F&B Manager—and landed him both the job and a name that has stuck ever since.

The hotel’s General Manager, Charanita Gill, praised the young chef’s commitment and contribution to the brand.

“We are incredibly proud of Chef Alfredo’s remarkable achievement,” she said.

“His gold medal win not only brings honour to himself but also reinforces ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri’s vision to nurture local talent.”

She said Chef Alfredo is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work, passion, and creativity. His journey is just beginning, and we are excited to see where it leads.

Beyond the medal, Chef Alfredo hopes to inspire other aspiring chefs to pursue excellence without shortcuts.

“Don’t chase money,” he advised. “Chase experience—the money will follow. If you’re passionate and dedicated, success will come naturally.”

With his feet firmly planted on the ground, Chef Alfredo follows a personal mantra that has guided him through his culinary journey:

As he looks ahead to future competitions and career milestones, Chef Alfredo remains committed to honing his craft, exploring new flavour profiles, and creating food that connects people across cultures.

The World Chefs Championship is an internationally recognised platform that celebrates culinary innovation, technical skill, and cultural diversity. Organised by WCCM, the competition fosters excellence through global exposure and networking opportunities for chefs across the world.

Meanwhile, ibis Styles Johor Iskandar Puteri, part of the Accor group, continues to build its reputation not only as a stylish and affordable hotel but as a launchpad for local talent. With over 500 uniquely themed hotels in more than 45 countries, the ibis Styles brand is known for playful designs, warm hospitality, and unforgettable guest experiences.

For Chef Alfredo, this is just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary culinary journey.