From Home Kitchens to Global Tables

A journey shaped by roots, refined by the world, and brought home with purpose.

Where It All Began

In the quiet heart of Kuala Pilah, my story began—not in a classroom, but in a kitchen.
At just four years old, I sat on the kitchen counter beside my father, learning to cut vegetables, stir pots, and most importantly, care.

"Food was never just food."
It was family, tradition, and the rhythm of our home.

My father’s vibrant Malaysian flavours and my mother’s soulful Kerala-inspired cooking became my first teachers—shaping not just how I cook, but why I cook.

A Different Path… But Food Never Left

I went on to study finance, accounting, and management at the University of Nottingham Malaysia.
On paper, my path was clear.

But even then, food found its way back to me—through regular cooking, quiet experiments, and even my final-year research on Malaysia’s vegetarian industry.

When the world paused during the pandemic, I leaned in.
I pursued a Master’s… and at the same time, began building something small but meaningful with my parents: DD’s Veggie Delights.

The World Became My Classroom

But I wanted more—more depth, more skill, more understanding.

That journey took me to Switzerland, where I trained professionally in vegetarian culinary arts.
Then to New York, where I had the privilege of working at Eleven Madison Park during its groundbreaking plant-based chapter.

I later joined Planta, a vegan Asian restaurant group that felt like home—where creativity, culture, and conscious cooking came together.

Each place shaped me.
Each kitchen refined me.
Each experience brought me closer to my voice as a chef.

Coming Home to Myself

Returning to Malaysia wasn’t easy.

I stepped into corporate roles, doing what I was “supposed” to do.
But something didn’t sit right.

Because I had already found where I belonged.

In the kitchen.
In the process.
In creating something meaningful for everyone.

So I chose to listen !!

DD’s Kind Craves: A Full-Circle Story

Today, my journey comes full circle with

DD’s Kind Craves.

What began as a small pop-up at Megah Rise Mall has grown into something deeply personal—offering naturally sweetened cakes, cookies, and granolas, crafted with intention.

From community bazaars to curated events, every step has been organic, heartfelt, and rooted in connection.

Crafting Bespoke Culinary Experiences

Alongside this, I work as a private chef—creating bespoke vegetarian and vegan dining experiences.

Every menu tells a story.
Yours.

Because food, to me, is never just about taste.

It’s about how it makes you feel.
The memories it creates.
The people it brings together.

Bringing Joy Through Food

Bringing joy through food—one meaningful, memorable bite at a time.