30/12/2025

TUESDAY | DEC 30, 2025

12

EDUCATION NEWS

Taylor’s Culinary Institute launches ‘loaf & latte’

TAYLOR’S Culinary Institute (TCI) has unveiled “loaf & latte”, marking a significant milestone in culinary education by integrating a fully operational commercial artisan bakery directly into its campus. The innovative “living classroom” concept bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world professional practice, positioning TCI at the forefront of culinary education in Malaysia. Real industry operations meet academic excellence The new space features a state-of-the-art production kitchen where students gain invaluable hands-on experience across all facets of bakery operations. From master production techniques and workflow planning to inventory management and customer service, loaf & latte provides an authentic working environment where aspiring culinary professionals can apply their knowledge in real-time scenarios. Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Patisserie Arts (Honours), Bachelor of Culinary Management (Honours), Advanced Diploma in Patisserie and Gastronomic Cuisine, and Diploma in Culinary Arts will complete selected modules at loaf & latte, ensuring that education extends far beyond traditional classroom walls. Signature bakery takeover projects One of the most innovative aspects of loaf & latte is the Bakery Takeover Projects – a signature Taylor’s experiential learning initiative. Through this programme, students take complete operational control of the bakery for periods ranging from one day to several weeks, depending on their semester. This immersive experience places them under real business conditions, where they must manage every aspect of the operation, from production to customer satisfaction. “Many young pastry graduates enter the industry only to discover that real bakery operations are far more demanding than theory and controlled lab work,” explained TCI head of

o On-campus commercial artisan bakery offering students real-world training school Chef Frederic Cerchi. “The integration of loaf & latte into our academic structure bridges that gap and reflects Taylor’s commitment to integrating industry practice into classroom learning. It gives students a true, hands-on bakery environment to build confidence, instinct, and real-world readiness.” World-class training, industry exposure Beyond daily operations, students benefit from masterclasses and demonstrations conducted by TCI’s international network of Michelin-level pastry chefs, French Bakery Specialists from Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) and global industry partners. This exposure to world-class expertise ensures students learn from the best in the industry. TCI also offers paid internship opportunities at loaf & latte, providing students with early industry exposure. This approach aligns with the evolving expectations of employers who increasingly seek graduates with global exposure and the adaptability to navigate diverse culinary trends – competencies that extend well beyond traditional academic learning.

From left: loaf & latte project manager Stephane Yan, Taylor’s University Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management executive dean Prof Dr Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan, Taylor’s Education Group chairman Datuk Loy Teik Ngan, Cerchi and loaf & latte senior lecturer Chef Fleurine Synaeve during the media launch of loaf & latte.

Nurturing future culinary entrepreneurs Looking toward the future, TCI has ambitious plans to develop the next generation of culinary entrepreneurs through its Business Incubator Programme. This advanced track includes franchising opportunities for students who demonstrate exceptional interest and capability. Year 2 and Year 3 students may apply to manage future loaf & latte outlets, receiving comprehensive training, standard operating procedures, brand guidelines and ongoing mentorship from TCI faculty. This entrepreneurial pathway transforms education into real business ownership opportunities. “As we look to the future, we envision

growing loaf & latte into a regional and international Malaysian artisan bakery brand,” added Cerchi. “Powered by the university’s strong global network, industry partnerships and the passion of our students and alumni, we hope to cultivate a brand that not only reflects technical mastery but also celebrates the creativity, heritage and spirit of the young bakers who bring it to life.”

Cerchi giving a tour of loaf & latte kitchen for members of

the media during the launch on Dec 16.

Scan the QR Code for more information about loaf & latte, TCI and its programme offerings

Bringing joy to needy students THE recent “Back to School” programme organised by Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Sri Langat, Banting brought joy to 85 students from underprivileged families. The initiative, part of the BSN Care Santuni MADANI development, infrastructure improvements and enhance educational equipment. “This is part of BSN’s efforts to strengthen the socio-economic wellbeing of local communities, in line with the government’s Santuni MADANI aspirations. The national program focuses on rural and semi-urban communities by providing more inclusive and targeted assistance,” she added. Also present at the event was

briefing session on financial literacy and anti-scam awareness. “The aim is to equip both teachers and students with knowledge about responsible financial management and the risks of online fraud, which is increasingly important in today’s environment,” she added. These initiatives also support digital-based education in line with current developments while it enhances students’ preparedness for returning to school, and instills early financial literacy among the younger generation. SK Sri Langat was established in 1967 and currently accommodates more than 1,000 pupils, supported by a dedicated team of educators and staff.

community segment, provided long-term benefits to the school. Aizurra Mellissa Muzammil, Head of Strategic Communications, BSN, said: “The bank contributed school uniforms and bags worth RM15,300 to the students. In addition, a cash donation of RM15,000 was presented to the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) of SK Sri Langat to support the students’ learning activities and

Ruslan Lebai Yakub, headmaster of SK Sri Langat, who emphasised that this assistance would significantly improve students’ readiness for learning by ensuring they have adequate resources. During the programme, Aizurra mentioned that BSN had also organised an interactive

The 85 students and teachers were also supported with financial literacy talks and the risks of online fraud.

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