An Evening with Yu Ting & Chef Martin Yan @ Sun Gourmet TRX

 

I had the honour of being invited to "An Evening with Yu Ting & Chef Martin Yan" an exquisitely curated celebration hosted by Yu Ting Trading Sdn Bhd at the luxurious Sun Gourmet TRX. The evening marked Yu Ting's 68th anniversary, where heritage, innovation and culinary mastery met in quiet harmony. 

The evening was themed "Engineering Heritage, Timeless Culinary, and Inheritance”器食相生，薪火傳承" a philosophy that bridges the past, inspires the present and empowers the future.  The prestigious gathering brought together Yu Ting's valued business associates, partners, media friends, and distinguished VIP guests. Among them were the legendary Master Chef Martin Yan; Chef Sun, the iconic Champion Chef and Founder of Sun Gourmet TRX; Mr. Chong Kam Fai, President of the Selangor & Federal Territory Ku Su Shin Choong Hung Restaurants Association; Mr. Lim Tien Song, Vice President of the Malaysia Tea Association; Dr. Peggy Chong and Lily Chong, Founders and Presidents of World Gourmet; and Mr. Low Kuang Lian, President of the Selangor & Kuala Lumpur Chinaware Merchants Association.

The evening kicked off with a brand introduction video that traced Yu Ting's journey across more than eight decades. I was struck by its honesty and depth, a narrative shaped by perseverance, progress and belief. One line lingered with me, " '机器 是进步，人工是传承"，machines represent advancement, but true inheritance lives in human hands. It perfectly captured Yu Ting's philosophy, while tools evolve, it is values, craftmanship and purpose that are truly passed down. 

The first keynote address was delivered by the visionary and architect behind the brand's success, Mr. William Lee, Managing Director of Yu Ting Trading Sdn Bhd. He reflected on Yu Ting's evolution, its commitment to innovation, and its people-first philosophy.

"For 68 years, Yu Ting has grown through more than tools and technology, we have inherited values, craftsmanship, and purpose. Our success is built on integrity, passion, and the courage to keep moving forward. As we honour our legacy, we remain committed to empowering the next generation while preserving the spirit that defines Yu Ting." - Mr. William Lee, Managing Director, Yu Ting Trading Sdn Bhd.

Seeing legendary Chef Martin Yan in person was a highlight on its own. A global culinary icon and ambassador of Asian cuisine, he spoke with warmth, humility and a deep passion for the culinary arts.

Chef Sun followed with an equally compelling address. As the Founder of Sun Gourmet TRX and the creative force behind the evening's menu, he shared his vision of elevating Asian cuisine onto the global stage while preserving its soul.

One of the most anticipated moments of the night was Chef Martin Yan's iconic Knife Presentation, followed by a Live Cooking Demonstration. True to his signature style, he brought infectious energy to the stage and even invited a blogger to cook alongside him. 

Another key highlight was "The Legacy, The Future" Talk Show, featuring a distinguished panel comprising Mr. Chong Kam Fai as Moderator, Chef Martin Yan, Mr. William Lee, and Chef Sun. The discussion explored legacy, mentorship, innovation, and the future of the culinary and hospitality industries. Chef Martin Yan emphasized the importance of mastering fundamentals and staying true to one's passion; Chef Sun spoke about balancing tradition with innovation; and Mr. William Lee shared Yu Ting Trading's vision for shaping Malaysia's culinary and hospitality ecosystem. It was inspiring to listen and reflect on how legacy applies not only to brands but to our own journeys as well. 

We had a blast savouring a specially curated menu by the Sun Gourmet team, featuring signature dishes that reflected the evening's theme of timeless culinary craftsmanship with modern finesse. Each course was refined and balanced!

The evening concluded with a simple yet meaningful token of appreciation ceremony, where Mr. William Lee presented mementos to Chef Martin Yan, Chef Sun, Mr. Chong Kam Fai, Mr. Lim Tien Song, Dr. Peggy Chong, and Mr. Low Kuang Lian, in recognition of their invaluable contributions and presence.

More than a celebration, "An Evening with Yu Ting & Chef Martin Yan" was a powerful tribute to inheritance, craftsmanship and human connection. As Yu Ting Trading commemorates 68 years of excellence, the brand continues to move forward, driven by innovation, grounded in values, and powered by people. It was truly a privilege to witness that legacy in motion.