By UOW Malaysia 

The library at UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College (UOWMKDU Penang), Batu Kawan Campus came alive on 11 June 2026 as celebrity chef Heman Tan from Singapore captivated an audience of 70 students and staff from the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts (SHTCA).

Renowned internationally for his culinary expertise and creative contributions to the industry, Chef Heman shared his newly published comic book alongside an inspiring account of his personal journey as a chef. His motivational talk encouraged students to embrace resilience, creativity, and passion in their own career paths.

The session was attended by Ms Cindy Loh, Head of School (SHTCA, UOWMKDU Penang), together with lecturers and students, who engaged enthusiastically with Chef Heman’s stories and insights. The event not only highlighted the importance of perseverance in the culinary world but also underscored the value of storytelling in motivating the next generation of hospitality professionals.

About Chef Heman Tan

Chef Heman Tan has accumulated more than 40 years of culinary experience as an R&D chef, executive chef, culinary consultant and entrepreneur. He was the host of the award-winning Channel 8 variety show, “Love on the Plate 3”, and is the author of seven books, notably “Iron Man Chef’s Guide to Life”, “Cooking Under Soft Pressure” and “Balancing Health and Flavour – Plant Based Cuisine”.

Chef Heman was an Executive Committee member of the Singapore Chefs’ Association, as well as a member of the International Association of Gastronomy, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and Sabre d’Or Singapore. He is also a Worldchefs Approved Continental Judge at international culinary competitions across Asia. Chef Heman has also participated in various culinary programs and demonstrations organised by major industry players such as Nestlé Professional, California Raisins, Singapore Food Festival, 50 Plus Healthy Living, Asian Masters and The Singapore Health Promotion Board. His most recent contribution was “Small Plates Big Flavours”, a cookbook jointly published by the Singapore Chefs’ Association and California Raisins, featuring two of Heman’s recipes. Being a competitive sportsman himself, Heman understands the need to be well versed in healthy eating and has obtained a Certificate of Nutrition and Diet (Healthy Eating Principles) under the Fitness Australia Accredited Program. He puts this unique knowledge to good use when he plans low GI meals for La-vie performers, healthy meals for international players of The Singapore Sports School and The Singapore Health Promotion Board. He was also actively involved in meal preparation for the international athletes at the 3rd ASEAN School Games.