Indonesia’s culinary heritage is shaped by an extraordinary diversity of regional ingredients, cooking traditions and cultural histories. At InterContinental Bali Resort, a recent collaboration with William Wongso placed that heritage at the center of a seven-day culinary residency, bringing the respected Indonesian gastronomy advocate together with Executive Chef Indrajit Saha and the resort’s culinary team.

Held from August 18 to 24, 2026, the residency focused on knowledge exchange, hands-on mentoring and the refinement of existing recipes. Rather than introducing a new dining concept, the collaboration was designed to strengthen the resort’s Indonesian culinary foundations and deepen the team’s understanding of the traditions behind the dishes they prepare.

Preserving Identity Through Craftsmanship

William Wongso has spent decades documenting, preserving and championing Indonesian cuisine. His work encompasses regional culinary traditions, indigenous ingredients, traditional cooking methods and the cultural stories that give each dish its identity. At the resort, that knowledge informed a practical exchange centered on ingredient provenance, preparation techniques and the balance of flavors.

Working alongside the culinary team, Wongso reviewed existing recipes and explored ways to refine them with greater precision while retaining their original character. The approach recognizes that a more considered presentation of Indonesian cuisine need not come at the expense of its authenticity.

“Indonesia has an extraordinary culinary heritage, with every region offering its own identity, ingredients and traditions. When we refine a dish, it is important that its identity remains intact. At InterContinental Bali Resort, I see an opportunity to work together with the culinary team to further develop what they have already created, while ensuring that the essence, flavour and story of Indonesian cuisine remain authentic,” said William Wongso.