Maldivian chef Maha Naseer honored in Kuala Lumpur for excellence in Maldives cuisine

Maldivian chef Maha Naseer has been honored with the “Top Outstanding Master Chef Award of Maldives Cuisine” at the World Top Gourmet Awards 2026, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

The award recognizes her exceptional contribution to elevating Maldivian cuisine on the global stage.

The ceremony took place on October 22 at the Andaman Grand Ballroom, where leading chefs from around the world gathered to celebrate culinary excellence. According to organizers, the event showcased outstanding achievements across the international gastronomy sector, with chefs, restaurants and food brands receiving recognition for their innovation and mastery.

Maha, who serves as a Board Director at Visit Maldives Corporation, previously earned the prestigious Master Chef title in 2022 from the Master Chef Society of the World. She is also a continental judge for the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs).

The World Top Gourmet Awards, established in 2017, highlight culinary accomplishments across Asia and beyond. This year, 108 winners were selected. Maha described her win as a proud moment for Maldivian chefs, noting that it reflects the growing presence of Maldivian cuisine in the global culinary arena.