Bayan Baru Community College grad bakes up success

Living the dream of earning comfortably through her own business, Nurol Atiqa Bumistra Abdullah, a 43-year-old, achieved this feat after completing pastry courses at Bayan Baru Community College (KKBU).

Nurol, who lives in Penang, operates her own business, making homemade pastries and cakes. “Besides pastries and cakes, I also do some tailoring for some extra income,” she said, grateful for the opportunity to pursue lifelong learning.

Nurol’s journey at Bayan Baru Community College

Nurol embarked on her educational journey at KKBU in March 2016 at the age of 36. Graduating with a pastry certification in the following year, she undertook practical training at Vistana Hotel.

She successfully completed her training, graduating from Bayan Baru Community College in 2018. Reflecting on her experience, Nurol expressed gratitude for the supportive lecturers and the accessibility of affordable fees.

“I put in my best effort, and throughout my two years at KKBU, I received the Director’s List award for each semester. I was also the best student in 2017 and represented KKBU at the 4th Penang International Halal Chefs Challenge the same year,” said Nurol, who emphasised the importance of affordable fees that made her educational pursuit feasible.

After completing her pastry certification, Nurol continued her educational journey with a Diploma in Patisserie, enrolling at Kuala Kangsar Community College. She commenced the diploma course in 2019 at the age of 39 and successfully completed the three-year programme in 2022.

Throughout the duration of her diploma, Nurol not only fulfilled the practical component but also participated in work-based learning at Jen Hotel by Shangri-La.

Community college – nurturing talents for success

KKBU plays a crucial role in nurturing talent by offering courses that cater to the aspirations of budding chefs and beauticians. Through these specialised programmes, it enables individuals to turn their skills into lucrative ventures.

Nurol’s success story stands as a powerful inspiration, underscoring the pivotal role that community colleges like KKBU play in providing valuable opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

Mawar Qadijah Ishak, the college’s director since September 2021, takes immense pride in her students’ accomplishments. “I’m especially proud of my students, especially those, despite facing challenges, still manage to excel and graduate,” she said.

“At our campus, we have a basic pastry certification program specially designed for students with diverse learning needs,” said Mawar. “While other students are required to pass their SPM, this program only requires a school leaving certificate, followed by an interview and an entrance test.”

There are two intakes every year and the duration of each course is two years. “Our courses are conducted over a period of two years or four semesters. Each semester only costs RM200,” she said, adding that the community college also helps those facing financial difficulties with financial aid.

There are two main courses offered by the Bayan Baru Community College, the Pastry Certification Program and the Beauty Therapy and Spa Certification Program where students learn the theoretical aspects and get to experience the practical aspects of pastry making and the beauty therapy and spa industries.

“Our college boasts a modern infrastructure, including well-equipped classrooms, a well-equipped kitchen setup, an e-library stocked with extensive resources and designated study areas for focused learning. At the end of the course, students are placed at bakeries, beauty salons or spas for internship, so that they get hands-on experience in a current setting.

“Other than that, we also have computer labs and an IT team to assist students with technological needs,” said Mawar.

In Penang, there are six such community colleges, each offering different courses. Bayan Baru Community College stands out for its specialized classes in pastry making and beauty and spa therapy, nurturing budding chefs and beauticians who are eager to turn their talents into lucrative ventures.

The Bayan Baru Community College is currently accepting registrations for the upcoming intake in February 2024. For further details, visit its website at https://kkbayanbaru.mypolycc.edu.my or call 04-6460011.