Penang, 30 May 2025 — Global culinary icon Chef Martin Yan lit up the stage at SEGi College Penang this week, captivating students, educators, and industry leaders in an exclusive masterclass that blended high-energy cooking demonstrations with deep reflections on sustainable gastronomy.
The “A Masterclass with Chef Martin Yan” event transformed the college campus into a vibrant hub of culinary excitement and professional inspiration. Hosted by SEGi College Penang, the afternoon featured not just the artistry of a world-renowned chef, but a powerful message about the future of food, the environment, and the next generation of hospitality professionals.
With over four decades of experience, Chef Yan, best known for his long-running TV show Yan Can Cook, brought his trademark charisma and lightning-fast knife skills to the SEGi stage. But this was more than a showcase of technique. As he chopped, sautéed, and stirred, Chef Yan delivered a running commentary on food waste, ethical sourcing, and the growing importance of sustainability in the culinary world.
“Sustainable cooking isn’t just a trend—it’s a responsibility,” said Yan to an audience of aspiring chefs. “Your generation will shape what the world eats, how it eats, and how that impacts our communities and planet.”
The event was officiated by YB Lim Siew Khim and drew over 300 attendees, including students, parents, and representatives from Malaysia’s hospitality and tourism sectors. It was a standout moment in SEGi College Penang’s academic calendar, underscoring the institution’s commitment to providing real-world, industry-led learning experiences.
Principal Ms Leong Mi-Chelle opened the masterclass with a spirited address, emphasizing the importance of blending passion with purpose in modern education. She noted that SEGi’s vision is not just to train competent graduates, but to cultivate professionals who are prepared to lead and innovate in a fast-changing world.
“Education must go beyond textbooks,” she said. “It must ignite passion, build practical skills, and open doors to meaningful futures. Today’s masterclass is exactly that—a rare chance for students to learn directly from one of the world’s best, and to see what’s possible when knowledge meets purpose.”
Throughout the afternoon, students were invited to observe, interact, and engage with Chef Yan, who responded to their questions with warmth, candour, and encouragement. From discussing global food trends to sharing anecdotes from his journey—from a young immigrant cook to an international culinary ambassador—Yan’s session was as inspiring as it was informative.
For many in attendance, especially the students of SEGi’s School of Hospitality and Tourism, the experience was transformative.
“It’s not every day you get to watch a legend cook in front of you and talk about the impact of food on the world,” said final-year student Tan Mei Ling. “He made us believe that with the right mindset and heart, we can go far in this industry.”
The event also served as a platform to strengthen ties between SEGi and its industry partners. With Malaysia’s hospitality sector rapidly evolving and a renewed focus on sustainability, collaborations like these are critical to ensuring students are prepared for the demands of modern careers.
As the masterclass came to a close, there was a palpable sense that something meaningful had taken place—not just a celebrity appearance, but a convergence of mentorship, education, and vision. With applause echoing through the hall and students lining up for photos and handshakes, Chef Yan left behind more than a few delicious dishes—he left a legacy of encouragement and a challenge to dream boldly.
In a single afternoon, SEGi College Penang showed why it continues to be one of the country’s leading institutions for hospitality education: committed to innovation, rooted in relevance, and always focused on shaping futures that matter.
