IPOH: More young Malaysians should explore culinary arts as a respected and rewarding career, as the field continues to gain recognition as a priority sector within the national Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda, urges Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The profession, once viewed as a second-rate option, now offers strong earning potential, international opportunities, and growing prestige, said the Perak Mentri Besar.
“Culinary arts are no longer just about preparing food – they are a respected discipline that blends creativity, technical skill, and innovation,” he said.
Saarani added that many Malaysian chefs have built successful careers abroad and possess impressive credentials, underscoring the global demand and recognition for culinary talent.
He said Perak is positioning itself as a key contributor to the national TVET ecosystem, with the state government launching large-scale efforts to strengthen its skills training landscape across various sectors, particularly in the culinary field.
“Culinary arts have been identified as one of our focus areas within TVET.
“I always tell people not to underestimate the culinary field.
“It has been proven that chefs can earn a good living, are highly respected today, and many of them have worked abroad and hold outstanding credentials,” he told reporters after officiating the Malaysian Culinary World Cup 2025 at Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah near here on Friday (27 June).
With over 800 participants, including international contestants and judges, the event is a major culinary showcase that Saarani said reflects Perak’s growing prominence in technical and vocational education.
He said the competition, which resembles popular shows like *MasterChef*, is not only capturing public interest but also helping to raise the profile of the culinary profession as one with genuine economic and creative value.
“I have instructed all community colleges and training institutions in the state to place greater emphasis on culinary, in addition to other technical disciplines.
“This is part of our broader campaign to uplift the industry and inspire more young people to pursue this path.
“I am confident that the young talents participating here will gain valuable knowledge and experience from senior chefs and international experts,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Saarani said hosting such a prestigious international event helps strengthen Malaysia’s food industry ecosystem and contributes to the global recognition of Malaysian cuisine.
He said the initiative also aligns with the *Perak Sejahtera 2030* agenda to transform the state into a national TVET Corridor.
“As host, Perak is leveraging its wide and competitive network of TVET hubs to support the event.
“The competition also serves as a platform for youth in Perak to hone their skills, build confidence, and gain exposure to international standards while encouraging healthy competition among TVET students.
“The role of TVET in the culinary industry is growing more important, as culinary arts are no longer viewed merely as technical skills, but as a form of cultural expression and innovation with high economic value,” he added.
