Top chefs in Malaysia need a 'unique culinary DNA', says Raymond Tham of Skillet and Beta

Raymond Tham is a seasoned chef who says that it is important that chefs have physical and mental endurance in order to withstand the stress of the kitchen. — Photo: Beta

Slowly, this perception has changed of course. The advent of reality television and cooking shows like MasterChef have given rise to the notion that being a chef is a glamorous pursuit that requires intelligence, creativity, a strong business mind and so much more (all completely true, by the way).

These days, even on the local front, there has been a growing appreciation for talented homegrown chefs – from fledgling young ‘uns to more established names who have set the blueprint for success on home ground.