Prime Minister Golden Hand award winner – Chef Mohd Hanafiah Ahmad – leads the pastry team at The Westin Kuala Lumpur. Being in the hotel food industry for more than 18 years, Hanafiah possess an extensive experience and exposure under his belt.
Hanafiah has proven himself through several achievements throughout the years of pursuing his career goal. Highlighting a few major achievements, he won his first Gold Medal for Pastry Showpiece from the renowned Food and Hotel Malaysia (FHM) competition, and was awarded the Most Outstanding Pastry Chef in year 2005. In the same year, he was also awarded the Prime Minister Golden Hand. Hanafiah not only specializes in fine detailed works like chocolate carving, sugar pulling and pastillage showpieces, he has also a passion for creating modern art designed decorations for various pastries.
Before devoting himself to The Westin Kuala Lumpur as Pastry Chef, Hanafiah worked his way up the ladder with a humble beginning and an ardor in culinary arts. Graduated from a recognized private local university – Taylor’s College – with certificate HIAS, Hanafiah started off his career as Commis II for two years in the 4-star Equatorial Hotel, Cameron Highlands. His career in the hotel food industry has since advanced as he moved on and worked as a Cook, Pastry Demi de Partie, Senior Pastry de Partie, Assistant Pastry Chef, Head Pastry Chef and Executive Pastry Chef with several other reputable hotels before he ultimately joined The Westin Kuala Lumpur, leading the pastry team responsible for all outlets, event orders, special orders and VVIP requests.
As a qualified individual who has sound knowledge of the latest food trends and intimately familiar with all the activities in the kitchen, he always has a strong commitment in delivering quality food and sustainable services. Chef Hanafiah compromises in providing customers a sophisticated experience in the world of pastry art. Hanafiah and his artistry team are inspired to create modern designed cakes with 3D decorations and wedding cakes with a touch of modern arts.
A fruitful leisure for Hanafiah would be spending time with his family, especially his children, as family is his priority. Aside from having an ardor in baking and creating new pastries, Hanafiah has a passion for cooking as well and enjoys learning and creating new recipes especially for his family. Additionally, he has an endeavor to bring his family to travel every once a year.