Study Culinary Arts in Malaysia
If you love cooking, creating flavours, and dream of running your own restaurant or bakery one day, studying Culinary Arts in Malaysia could be the perfect recipe for your future.
With Malaysia’s booming food, tourism, and hospitality industry, skilled chefs and culinary professionals are in high demand both locally and globally. Whether you want to become a chef, pastry artist, or even food entrepreneur, a
Culinary Arts diploma in Malaysia offers hands-on training and real-world experience to turn your passion into a profession.
Why Study Culinary Arts in Malaysia?
Malaysia is a food paradise, multicultural, vibrant, and globally connected. It’s one of the best places in Asia to study Culinary Arts, especially if you're passionate about both local flavours and international cuisines.
Here’s why many students choose to study Culinary Arts in Malaysia:
- Affordable education and living costs compared to countries like Australia, the UK, or the US, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious students.
- Access to internationally recognised culinary schools and academies, some offering prestigious partnerships like Le Cordon Bleu.
- Hands-on learning through industry placements, live kitchen training, food festivals, and real-world restaurant simulations.
- A unique chance to explore both Asian and Western cuisine, ideal for students aiming for a global culinary career.
- Multilingual environment and a hospitality-friendly culture help students adapt easily and build industry-ready soft skills.
- Pathways to advanced studies, including Bachelor’s in Culinary Management, Food Entrepreneurship, or even international transfer programs.
Whether you dream of becoming a chef, running your own café, or working in a 5-star hotel kitchen, studying Culinary Arts in Malaysia gives you the tools and exposure to succeed.
Culinary Arts Diploma Entry Requirements in Malaysia
To enrol in a Diploma in Culinary Arts in Malaysia, students must meet the following general entry criteria:
SPM / O-Level: A minimum of 3 credits, usually including English. Some institutions may also consider passes in relevant subjects such as Science or Home Science.
UEC / IGCSE: Equivalent qualifications are accepted, subject to the institution's evaluation.
English Proficiency: International students are typically required to demonstrate English language skills, such as an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL or MUET).
Meeting these requirements allows students to study Culinary Arts in Malaysia and gain hands-on training in world-class kitchens under industry professionals.
Career Opportunities After Studying Culinary Arts
After completing your Diploma in Culinary Arts in Malaysia, you can either start working in the food and hospitality industry right away or continue your studies with a degree in culinary management, hospitality, or gastronomy.
Here are some exciting career paths:
- Chef / Sous Chef / Pastry Chef
- Food Stylist or Consultant
- Bakery or Café Owner
- Kitchen Manager
- Caterer
- Food Content Creator or Influencer
With Malaysia’s global reputation for food and tourism, you’ll have the skills to work abroad, especially in hospitality-driven countries like Australia, Japan, the UAE, or even on international cruise liners.
Ready to Turn Your Passion for Food into a Career?
Explore the best culinary schools and diploma programs in Malaysia today. Speak to our education advisors if you need help choosing the right course, or if you're looking for scholarships and student support to study in Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a Diploma in Culinary Arts cost in Malaysia?
Tuition fees for a Diploma in Culinary Arts in Malaysia typically range from RM 15,000 to RM 30,000, depending on the institution and program specifics. Overall, Malaysia offers the most affordable tuition fee in compared to UK, USA, or Canada.
2. Which diploma is best for becoming a chef in Malaysia?
The Diploma in Culinary Arts is the best option for those aspiring to become chefs in Malaysia, as it provides comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety.
Additionally, those interested in a broader hospitality career may also consider courses like the Diploma in Hospitality Management or the Diploma in Event Management to enhance their skill set and job prospects in the culinary industry.
3. How long is the culinary school program in Malaysia?
A Diploma in Culinary Arts in Malaysia typically takes 1.5 to 2 years to complete, which includes both theoretical coursework and practical training. This duration often encompasses hands-on internships, providing students with valuable real-world experience in the culinary field.
4. Can I become a chef without a degree?
Yes, you can become a chef without a degree by enrolling in a Diploma in Culinary Arts or starting with a certificate program. Many chefs build their careers through hands-on training, apprenticeships, and real-world kitchen experience. However, formal culinary education in Malaysia can give you a strong foundation and better job opportunities.