KOTA KINABALU: The Sandakan Pastry Competition to find the next big pastry creation is returning after a two-year hiatus since it was first launched in 2019 before the Covid-19 pandemic.

       Online registrations are open until Saturday (June 11), while the final judging will be held on Sunday (June 12).

       First introduced at the Sandakan Food and Agriculture Festival 2019, the idea for the annual competition was inspired by Sandakan’s famous "UFO tart", which was created in the 1950s by a local pastry maker.

       The competition's goal is to turn Sandakan bakers and pastry chefs into a big talent pool and attraction for Sandakan.

       The competition is supported by the Sandakan Municipal Council and organised by Taste Sabah Sdn Bhd, with other Sandakan partners.

       “The event is hoped to encourage professional and amateur pastry chefs to showcase their ideas.

       “The top four entries will get widespread publicity for their work, and public demand will undoubtedly skyrocket for their pastries.

       “Registration for and participation in the competition is free,” said the organiser in a statement on Tuesday (June 7).

       The competition offers over RM1,500 in cash and prizes, and those interested can visit San Da Gen Kopitiam's Facebook page for the digital form.