Chef Saito Sam Makoto, the chef-owner of Sakana Japanese Dining and Sushi Hibiki, has been honored with the title of Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. This prestigious appointment recognizes his dedication to promoting Japanese food and culture both in Japan and abroad.
A Champion of Japanese Cuisine in Malaysia
Chef Saito Sam has been a passionate advocate for Japanese cuisine in Malaysia since opening his restaurants. His venues, Sushi Hibiki in Four Seasons Place and Sakana Japanese Dining in KLCC, have become key locations for enjoying authentic Japanese dishes. Over the years, Chef Saito Sam has become a central figure in Malaysia’s Japanese culinary scene, influencing both locals and international visitors.
He has also been instrumental in founding the Sushi Summit, a Japanese food promotion event that highlights the collaboration between fishmongers and businesses from Japan’s Tohoku region. Additionally, Chef Saito Sam has worked on developing Muslim-friendly Japanese menus, ensuring that Japanese cuisine is accessible to a broader audience while maintaining authenticity.
A Lifelong Passion for Sushi
Chef Saito Sam’s journey with Japanese cuisine began at the age of 15 when he started working at a sushi restaurant in Tokyo. Since then, he has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of sushi. At the age of 35, he made the bold decision to leave Japan and travel the world, further honing his skills before eventually settling in Malaysia and opening his restaurants.
A Commitment to Quality Ingredients
Chef Saito Sam’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the kitchen. He prioritizes sourcing the best ingredients, regularly visiting Japanese fishermen, seafood processors, farmers, and sake brewers to gain a deeper understanding of the farm-to-plate process. His dedication ensures that every dish served at his restaurants meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity.
Chef Saito Sam’s appointment as the Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador reflects his significant contributions to the global appreciation of Japanese food and culture. Through his work, he continues to inspire and educate others on the importance of Japanese culinary traditions.
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