Nestlé Professional Partners with Sunway University to
Nurture the Next Generation of Culinary Professionals
Nestlé Professional Malaysia has formalised a strategic collaboration with Sunway University Malaysia through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), highlighting a shared commitment to developing a strong pipeline of future-ready culinary talent for Malaysia’s expanding foodservice industry. The partnership is anchored in Nestlé Professional’s Young Culinary Talents (YOCUTA) programme, a global Creating Shared Value initiative under the Nestlé Needs YOUth ambition, which seeks to expand economic opportunities for young people. Through this collaboration, students gain essential knowledge, practical training, and hands-on industry experience to support their growth into professional culinary careers. Together, Nestlé Professional and Sunway University aim to cultivate a new generation of culinary professionals who will drive innovation, raise industry standards, and contribute to the advancement of Malaysia’s foodservice sector.
As part of the partnership, students will have access to expert-led masterclasses, live culinary demonstrations, industry workshops, structured internships, and mentorship opportunities, all delivered jointly by Sunway University and Nestlé Professional’s chef network. According to Ms Yit Woon Lai, Business Executive Officer of Nestlé Professional Malaysia and Singapore, the collaboration underscores the importance of strong industry–academia partnerships in nurturing future culinary professionals. She explained that through YOCUTA, the programme supports young culinary talents by strengthening both their theoretical knowledge and practical kitchen skills, enabling them to transition confidently from the classroom into professional careers. The collaboration with Sunway University allows Nestlé Professional to provide industry expertise, mentorship, and exposure that complement academic learning while promoting the long-term sustainability of the foodservice sector.
The YOCUTA programme, part of Nestlé Professional’s Culinary Excellence Framework, develops aspiring chefs through education, hands-on training, industry exposure, and a strong focus on sustainability. Implemented across multiple countries, it enhances culinary and foodservice capabilities while fostering creativity, professionalism, and innovation. As a core element of Nestlé’s Needs YOUth global ambition, YOCUTA supports the goal of providing 10 million young people with access to economic opportunities, making it one of the company’s most impactful youth development initiatives.
The MoU signing ceremony at Sunway University was attended by key representatives from both organisations, including Professor Sibrandes Poppema, President of Sunway University; Professor Dr Daniel Chong Ka Leong, Dean of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; Ms Yit Woon Lai, Business Executive Officer of Nestlé Professional Malaysia and Singapore; and Ms Tazeen Shehryar, Food Business Manager of Nestlé Professional Malaysia.
