By UOW Malaysia 

UOW Malaysia’s School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts participated in the Melaka Culinary Challenge 2023 from 16 to 18 June 2023. The GUiLD Culinary Team, consisting of seven Bachelors in Culinary Management students, competed in multiple categories at The Shore Shopping Gallery in Bandar Melaka. After two months of training, the team achieved 1 Silver Medal, 8 Bronze Medals, and 4 diploma awards in various categories. Tang Heng Jun, a final year student, expressed satisfaction in proving themselves against competitors from other institutions and credited their chef-lecturers for their guidance throughout the training and competition.

In addition to competing in various categories, some of the awards won were in the Open Class categories, which involved experienced individuals from the food and beverage industry. Despite facing more stringent judging standards, final-year students Chan Jing Xiang and Karthic held their own and found the medal they won even more rewarding. They participated in the open class team challenge, where they prepared a modern Asian 3-course meal.

The students emphasized that the training provided them with more than just cooking skills. Hans Khoo, a Year-2 bachelor’s student, highlighted that the training helped them improve their organizational skills and remain composed under pressure. This sentiment was echoed by Kurmanova Altynai, a final-year student from Kazakhstan, who credited the training under their chef-lecturers for enabling them to stay focused and composed during their tasks.

While the team received training in kitchen organization and presentation techniques, they acknowledged that taste remained the most crucial factor for success. Loong Ethan emphasized the challenge of achieving their dishes’ perfect flavor and seasoning. Team Captain Ng Mun Ei, a final-year student, expressed gratitude for the school’s valuable opportunity to compete. Recognizing the rarity and significance of such chances, Mun Ei emphasized that hard work and perseverance paid off. The team felt honored to represent The GUiLD Culinary Team and UOW Malaysia.

Founded in 2017, the GUiLD Culinary Team from UOW Malaysia’s School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts was established with the aim of participating in culinary competitions. Led by experienced chefs Chef Edwan and Chef Hamirudin, the team embodies talent and excellence. Chef Hamirudin emphasized UOW Malaysia’s commitment to recognizing talent and class, believing that bravery is rewarded with success in culinary competitions.