A Culinary Legacy Reimagined: Chef Masalun Sidul's Return to The Palace Hotel by Writer On-The-Go Lorena Binisol feature in Favstyle Magazine | Essentials

Where Passion, Patience and Heritage Meet at Tangerine

At the heart of Kota Kinabalu's evolving culinary landscape, a familiar name has returned to the kitchen where his remarkable journey first began. After nearly four decades of refining his craft across Sabah's hospitality industry, Chef Masalun Sidul has come full circle, bringing a wealth of experience, wisdom, and culinary artistry back to The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu.

Born in Kimanis, Papar, and now residing in Tuaran with his family, Chef Masalun's story is a testament to dedication and perseverance. Unlike many professional chefs, his expertise was not shaped in a culinary academy. Instead, it was forged through years of hands-on experience, countless hours in bustling hotel kitchens, and an unwavering commitment to mastering his craft.

Chef Masalun, serving his specialty Oxtail Asam Pedas to the guests

His culinary journey began in 1989 when he joined The Palace Hotel as an assistant cook immediately after completing secondary school. Throughout the years, he embraced opportunities to work in various hospitality establishments, not out of necessity, but from a desire to broaden his horizons and deepen his understanding of different culinary systems and cultures. This adventurous spirit enabled him to develop a diverse skill set that extends beyond cooking into kitchen management, operations, and culinary innovation.

Tangerine restaurant in located at the Palace Hotel

Today, Chef Masalun brings nearly 40 years of expertise back to The Palace Hotel's signature dining venue, Tangerine Restaurant, where guests can experience his celebrated creations firsthand. While he is particularly renowned for his mastery of traditional Malay cuisine, his versatility allows him to expertly navigate a variety of culinary styles, adapting to the ever-changing tastes of modern diners.

The Signature Masterpiece: Asam Pedas Oxtail

Among his most talked-about creations is the exquisite Asam Pedas Oxtail, a dish that beautifully showcases Chef Masalun's philosophy of balancing tradition with innovation. Rather than replicating popular oxtail dishes already found elsewhere, he developed a distinctive recipe that reflects his own culinary identity.

The dish features an aromatic blend of onions, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, bunga kantan, daun kesum, and asam jawa, creating layers of flavour that unfold with every bite. Yet the true secret lies not only in the ingredients, but in the patience behind the preparation. The oxtail is carefully boiled for two hours before being slowly simmered with spices, allowing the flavours to develop naturally while achieving exceptional tenderness.

Understanding the preferences of today's diners, Chef Masalun also incorporates bolder flavour profiles, adding subtle heat that enhances the dish without overpowering its traditional roots. The result is a memorable culinary experience that honours heritage while embracing contemporary palates.

A Story of Dedication and Excellence

Chef Masalun's return to The Palace Hotel represents more than a professional homecoming. It symbolizes a lifetime devoted to culinary excellence, continuous learning, and an enduring passion for bringing people together through exceptional food. His journey from a young assistant cook in Papar to a respected culinary professional reflects the values of resilience, craftsmanship, and innovation that define Sabah's vibrant hospitality industry.

Group photo with Marcom Manager Jassinta and Sales & Marketing Manager Ms Rosila 
together with FAVSTYLE Magazine editor team

For guests visiting Tangerine Restaurant, every dish prepared by Chef Masalun tells a story, one seasoned with experience, enriched by tradition, and elevated through years of dedication. His signature Asam Pedas Oxtail stands as a delicious reminder that true culinary artistry is never rushed; it is patiently cultivated, thoughtfully prepared, and passionately served.

FAVSTYLE Magazine | Essentials

An inspiring celebration of Sabah's culinary heritage, where passion meets excellence and every plate tells a story worth savouring.