By UOW Malaysia 

November 2024 proved to be a month of culinary excitement at the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts (SHTCA) of University of Wollongong Malaysia. A series of events showcased the diversity of culinary skills and the global influence on local cuisine.

The MLA Lambassador Challenge

On 9th November 2024, the MLA Lambassador Challenge brought together six teams of two participating in a cooking competition centred around Australian lamb and beef. The challenge focused on creating a Ramadhan-style platter, including two main courses, condiments, vegetables, and a carbohydrate dish. The teams were mentored by culinary experts who guided them on techniques like meat cutting and cooking. After a series of timed entries, the top three teams were awarded prizes, with Kolej Komoditi Chenderoh winning the top spot. This event highlighted the versatility of Australian meats and allowed students to showcase their culinary skills in a competitive setting.

A Benchmarking Visit

On 20th November, 28 students from Kolej Komuniti Bukit Beruang visited UOW Malaysia’s School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts for a benchmarking visit. This visit enabled students to explore UOW Malaysia’s facilities, including its state-of-the-art kitchens and training restaurants. The students interacted with faculty members and observed hands-on learning in hospitality and culinary arts. The visit concluded with a lunch at UOW Malaysia’s training restaurant and a session on industry trends, offering valuable insights into global hospitality education standards.

A Pasta-Making Masterclass

On 26th November 2024, UOW Malaysia hosted a Mobility Workshop for 16 students from Chong Hwa Independent School KL, focusing on pasta-making techniques. Students were taught how to prepare Baked Macaroni and Aglio e Olio Spaghetti, working in groups under the guidance of UOW Malaysia instructors. The workshop provided practical cooking experience, emphasising teamwork, presentation, and culinary precision. Students left with new skills and an appreciation for professional cooking, inspiring many to pursue culinary careers.