It was not just any casual text my brother sent me, "Asilah you should join this program!"

I clicked the link that he sent and did a little research before I filled in my application form. Once I submitted my application form, I didn't expect to get a callback or an interview - but I did. One of the thoughts that were going through my head was “ but you don't have a background in culinary!”

It was a spark of interest which started a month before that when I joined a bread making class. In that class, I felt really happy and inspired; my love for the the culinary arts thus began and I know this is something worth pursuing. Although I didn't study anything related to the field, however, the desire to learn more was starting to grow.

Since my on boarding I've been here for 3 months and am in the midst of training in kitchen and service at Agak Agak. Service and kitchen have a completely different atmosphere; the intensity, adrenaline and of course the endless multitasking roles. You really need to put on many hats, in this case: chef hats! With that being said, opportunities that I got at Agak Agak comes hand in hand with responsibilities. There was never a dull moment in the kitchen, I learned a lot from Chef and Min Sen - from how to be consistent in sandwich making to the very basics on how to peel eggs properly.

Although everyone is busy, it is important to communicate and alert the team if needed. You just need to assimilate yourself to the environment and things will work just fine; if not there is always tomorrow to improve and make things better. On the contrary, in service, allows me to interact with customers whilst maintaining a professional attitude and communication skills with my team to ensure my work runs smoothly.

As far as I can tell, everyone should at least work in F&B once in their life. This industry should not be underestimated. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, it is not as easy as everyone thinks it is.

The Agak Agak team exudes warmth and friendliness. They treat everyone with respect and it is very family oriented. This definitely helps me to gain more confidence and belief in myself that I achieve greater success after my apprenticeship ends. They constantly reassure me that they are here to help and guide me throughout this program.

They truly live up to my expectation and set the bar high for me. I had the experience to learn from the best and meet different people from a various culinary backgrounds that broaden my mind. Basira, or Chef as all of us address her is very warm and patient in teaching me; although I am aware at times I can be a little slow. She reassures and encourages me to always ask questions even though I may think it is unnecessary. For instance, I once asked her why is our kitchenware coming from the same brand? I was curious, so I asked, and she then explained the reasoning behind it. Ili is friendly yet firm, a combination that I admire. I was on service with her occasionally. I love how she handles customers and cater to their needs; it is so natural to her to display that demeanour.

What I desire after my apprenticeship ends is to have a better attitude; not just for work but in life. I want to be a positive person and to have better perspective. My communication in English is something I am proud of. My English gradually improves and I have more confidence in speaking the language. I hardly speak the language at home nor at school but at Agak Agak I speak the language almost on daily basis.

Looking back, It was always a dream of mine to own a restaurant. I used to think owning a restaurant is something that will always remain a dream. A fantasy I wish would come true. 3 months into the Agak Agak Apprenticeship Program, I have started to realise what is the point of joining this apprenticeship program if I don’t want to make my dreams come true? As for now, I want to learn everything, I want my apprenticeship program to be an immersive one.

I always remind myself to be a chameleon. Why a chameleon? Because the F&B is an ever changing environment and I just have to adapt to it. My takeaway is opportunities like this don’t come often. I hope for future applicants to come here with an open mind and cherish every single moment working here with the team. Always be humble and positive and trust me, you will be a different person and become a much better version of yourself. I know, because I’m making that progress day by day.

Want to be in on the journey too?

Apply now for our apprenticeship program by filling up the form here.

An Agak Agak Apprentice Experience

Hanis Khairuddin & Asilah Al Has

RECENT POSTS

Our Restaurant

Apprentice Nabil: A Year in Review

A Cheese Experience with Milky Whey Cheese

#AAMUHIBBAHNESS

RECAP: Agak Agak Apprenticeship Program Open Day 14 May 2017

An Internship with Agak Agak

Agak Agak's First School Visit

Agak Agak Restaurant