Study Culinary Arts in Malaysia

What is a culinary arts course in Malaysia?

The term culinary arts, in which culinary means "related to cooking", refers to the art of food preparation, cooking, and presentation of food. From preparing food in the kitchen to table manners in the dining room, you will be surprised with how much there is to learn in the industry!

Along with the common subjects of culinary arts, you will also pick up additional knowledge and skills that compliment the field, such as business, marketing and hospitality.

What are the major fields in culinary arts?

1. Pastry and Baking
You will learn the basics of culinary arts that emphasize the creation of desserts and baking goods. Ever see detailed crafted cakes or cookies decoration? It can take years to master the art of crafting cake designs - it certainly needs a lot of passion too!

2. Culinary Management
You can do more than just serve great food in this role. Those with a desire to manage and run the whole show should build their business and management skills, in combination with their knowledge of food.

3. Culinary Arts
This versatile degree can provide you with broad, general knowledge of the culinary arts field. Typically, you will get an introduction to the food-service industry, including its history and present environment, as well as an introduction to taste and flavour.

Apart from kitchen essentials, culinary techniques, fundamentals, and nutrition, baking and pastry fundamentals might also be taught, as well as meat selection and fabrication. You will be well prepared to create anything in the kitchen!

What are the entry requirements and qualifications?

Many culinary arts programmes and certifications do not require minimum requirements. They also cater to the need of students, working adults, and baking hobbyists. In general, requirements for formal education in the field are as stated below.

Diploma

• SPM / SPMV / O Level - 3 credits 

Bachelor's degree

Foundation / Matriculation: Pass with a minimum CGPA 2.0 

STPM: Pass with a minimum grade C in at least 2 subjects

A-Level: Minimum 2Es

How long do you study to get a culinary arts degree?

There are many types of programmes available to students, be it full-time, part-time, intensive training or master class. Whether you are still a student or a working adult, there is always a course for you in culinary arts. In university, the duration of study is generally:

• Bachelor's Degree: 1 - 3 years
• Master's Degree: 1 - 2 years

How much does it cost to study culinary course in Malaysia?

Here are the estimated fees of studying Culinary Arts in Malaysia according to different study levels:

What are the culinary school options available in Malaysia?

The toughest part about studying culinary arts is deciding which school to enrol in. This can be difficult for a wide variety of reasons, ranging from affording tuition and having the resources to relocate to another city or even country. Here is a list of institutes in Malaysia that offer culinary arts:

1. Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts

2. Sunway University

3. Management and Science University (MSU) 

4. UOW Malaysia KDU University College

5. BERJAYA University College

6. Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL)

7. City University Malaysia

What basic skills and knowledge must you have before pursuing this course?

Basic knowledge of culinary arts consists of a variety of fundamental skills and concepts. Having a good grasp of these aspects is essential and beneficial if you decide to further your studies and career in the culinary field. \

Here are the basic skills and knowledge you need to know beforehand:

1. Food safety and sanitation

In any culinary setting, whether you're working in a restaurant kitchen, catering service, or food production facility, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety is important.

So you need to acquire knowledge of safe food handling practices, proper storage techniques to prevent cross-contamination, and understand the principles of HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) to ensure food safety at every stage of production.

Additionally, having a thorough understanding of food safety regulations and standards set by regulatory bodies such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) or equivalent local authorities is essential for you. This knowledge not only ensures the health and well-being of consumers but also protects the reputation and success of culinary establishments.

2. Cooking methods

Another essential aspect of basic culinary knowledge is understanding various cooking methods. You'll need to learn different techniques such as grilling, roasting, sautéing, frying, baking, steaming, and braising.

Each method imparts unique flavors, textures, and appearances to food, and knowing when and how to use them is crucial for creating delicious and well-prepared dishes. 

3. Basic culinary techniques

Basic culinary techniques are also an essential part of your culinary education. Learning foundational techniques such as searing, blanching, poaching, and emulsifying will allow you to create a wide range of dishes with precision and skill. 

These techniques form the building blocks of culinary creativity and will serve as the foundation for your future culinary endeavors.

4. Food presentation

Food presentation is also an essential aspect of culinary arts. Understanding the importance of food presentation, including plating techniques, garnishing, and creating visually appealing dishes, is crucial for creating memorable dining experiences. 

Learning how to plate dishes attractively not only enhances the visual appeal of the food but also contributes to the overall dining experience.  

5. Kitchen equipment

Familiarizing yourself with various kitchen tools and equipment, understanding their uses, and learning proper maintenance techniques are essential aspects of your culinary education. 

From knives and cutting boards to mixers and ovens, knowing how to use and care for kitchen equipment properly will help you work efficiently and safely in a professional kitchen environment. 

Additionally, understanding the capabilities and limitations of different kitchen equipment will allow you to create a wide range of dishes with precision and skill.

What culinary arts jobs are there in Malaysia?

Culinary arts doesn't just offer you an opportunity in the kitchen. With the right skills, you can venture into management too! Check out the list of careers here:

• Banquet Coordinator
• Event Planner
• Pastry Baker
• Head Chef
• Kitchen Manager
• Advisory Chef
• Barista
• F&B Operation Manager
• Bartender