IT’S a sweet victory (no pun intended) for chef Muhammad Ikhwan Mustafar, who was recently crowned champion of TV3’s reality baking competition, Hero Oven Season 2.
He defeated fellow finalists Muhammad Adam Mahamed Ismail, Amir Hamzah Mohamed and Chai Chee Hung (Alex) to clinch the trophy, RM3,000 and electronic products.
“I’m grateful for this win. I think the most difficult part was challenging myself to be the best,” said Ikhwan, 25.
In the final round, the four contestants were required to prepare three desserts — a two-tier cake, a 40cm-tall macaron tower and three types of petit fours — all in six hours.
“It wasn’t easy as I had to race against time. Another threat was Alex. Not only he is a pastry chef, he also had endless innovative ideas on desserts.”
Ikhwan said he found support and strength from his wife, who also shared knowledge on pastries with him, and his parents.
“I actually wanted to throw in the towel before moving on to the final round since the challenge was something I had never experienced before. But I soldiered on until the end.”
The trained chef thanked his friends and fellow contestants who shared their input throughout the competition.
“To repay their kindness, I tried to give my best in every challenge thrown at me.”
The second place went to Alex, followed by Adam and Amir.
Hero Oven Season 2 started out with 12 contestants, but only four moved on to the finals following 10 gruelling rounds.
The programme is aimed at unearthing men who are not only armed with baking skills, but can also speak confidently in front of the camera.