Chef / Cook Salary in Malaysia
Updated · Compiled from Michael Page Malaysia, Hays Malaysia, Randstad Malaysia, JobStreet Malaysia salary guides · Methodology
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| Level | Min / Month | Median / Month | Max / Month | Min / Year | Max / Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | RM 1,800 | RM 2,400 | RM 3,000 | RM 21,600 | RM 36,000 |
| Mid | RM 3,000 | RM 4,200 | RM 5,500 | RM 36,000 | RM 66,000 |
| Senior | RM 5,500 | RM 7,200 | RM 9,000 | RM 66,000 | RM 108,000 |
Chef / Cook Salary by City
| City / Region | Median / Month | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Kuala Lumpur / Klang Valley | RM 4,600 | RM 1,800 — RM 9,000 |
| Penang | RM 4,278 | RM 1,674 — RM 8,370 |
| Johor Bahru | RM 4,140 | RM 1,620 — RM 8,100 |
| Other states | RM 3,818 | RM 1,494 — RM 7,470 |
Market Insight: Chef / Cook
Chef pay in Malaysia spans an enormous range because the title runs from line cook to executive chef. The establishment decides most of it — a hotel, fine-dining restaurant or international resort pays well above a casual eatery. Climbing the kitchen brigade (commis to chef de partie to sous chef to head chef) is the path, and mastery of a respected cuisine or pastry can speed it up. Hours are long, and many of the highest earners eventually run their own kitchens or open their own outlets.
What's the real take-home?
The Chef / Cook median is RM 4,600 gross. See what's left after EPF, SOCSO & tax.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chef / Cook earn in Malaysia?
A Chef / Cook in Malaysia earns a median of RM 4,600 per month (RM 55,200 per year), with most earning between RM 1,800 and RM 9,000 monthly.
What is the starting salary for a Chef / Cook in Malaysia?
Entry-level Chef / Cooks typically start at RM 1,800 to RM 3,000 per month in the Klang Valley market.
How much does a senior Chef / Cook make?
A senior Chef / Cook can earn up to RM 9,000 per month — about 200% more than an entry-level role.
How much does a Chef / Cook earn per hour in Malaysia?
At the median monthly pay of RM 4,600, a Chef / Cook earns roughly RM 24 per hour based on a standard full-time work week.
How much does a Chef / Cook earn in Kuala Lumpur?
In Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley, a Chef / Cook earns about RM 4,600 per month at the median — the highest in Malaysia. Penang and Johor Bahru pay slightly less, around RM 4,278 and RM 4,140.
Is Chef / Cook a well-paid job in Malaysia?
With a median of RM 4,600 per month, a Chef / Cook earns above the Malaysian graduate median, and pay improves notably with experience and specialised skills.