Practice makes perfect

“WITH the right attitude and guidance from the university’s expert lecturers, almost anyone can learn how to cook professionally,” says Amirul Amin Anuar, who is pursuing the Diploma in Culinary Arts at Nilai University ( Nilai U).

He points out that just as an aircraft maintenance engineering student would not know how to fix a plane before undergoing an engineering programme, not all new culinary arts students should be expected to be able to whip up a storm in the kitchen.

That said, Amirul is no novice in cooking, having gleaned many kitchen secrets from his mother.

“It started when I challenged my elder brother to a burger- making contest when I was in Year One and won. From then on, I would help my mother in the kitchen whenever possible,” he recalls.

“By the time I was in Year Six, I was confident enough to take up the responsibility of cooking for the family when my mother was pregnant.”

It was no surprise to his family when Amirul chose to pursue culinary arts at Nilai U.

“I had no plan to do anything else except pursue my passion for cooking. I had my parents’ blessings and was ecstatic when I was offered a place in Nilai U’s Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism,” he says.

The 20- year- old Felda scholar admits to being slightly nervous at the prospect of an all- English syllabus in the beginning, but soon adapted to the programme.

“My lecturers helped me navigate through my first few months at the university. Through group discussions and constant reading, I became more confident about using English.”

“I get to learn in a large training kitchen and am exposed to cuisines from all over the world. I am no longer confined to traditional Malay cuisine,” he says.

His immediate plan is to secure an internship before working towards his dream of becoming a restaurant owner.

“I urge all students, whether confident cooks or complete novices, to check out Nilai U’s Diploma in Culinary Arts programme,” says Amirul.

“I believe that many will be surprised at their own abilities and how the programme can lead to a successful and enriching career in the food and beverage industry.”

For more information, call 06- 850 2308 or 07- 226 2336 or visit www. nilai. edu. my Amirul Amin Anuar, student of the Diploma in Culinary Arts at Nilai University.