Reliance College Malaysia is a well-established private higher education institution specialising in hospitality, tourism, culinary arts, and business-related programmes. Known for its industry-oriented education model, the college attracts students who want practical skills and strong employability in the global hospitality sector.

What makes Reliance College unique for international students is its strong industry linkage, hands-on learning approach, and focus on real-world hospitality training. For students looking to study hospitality in Malaysia or pursue tourism management in Malaysia, Reliance College offers a career-focused and affordable pathway.

Quick Facts

Category	Details
Type of Institution	Private College
Location	Malaysia (with industry exposure across major cities)
Campus Style	Urban, industry-oriented campus
Academic Focus	Hospitality, Tourism, Culinary Arts, Business
Key Affiliation	Hospitality and tourism industry partners
Language of Instruction	English
Ranking Context	Recognised locally for hospitality and tourism education

This guide is designed for students planning to study in Malaysia, especially those interested in hospitality and tourism careers.

Reliance College was established in 1987 and has developed a long-standing focus on Tourism and Hospitality education in Malaysia. The college describes itself as a pioneer in the field, with more than 35 years of training experience and a focus on preparing students for careers in the global hospitality industry.

From its early years, Reliance College focused on combining practical training with management skills. Its programmes were designed to help students understand the demands of the hospitality and tourism industries while developing skills needed for professional careers.

The college says it has helped thousands of students build careers in the hospitality industry. Students can gain practical experience through facilities such as mock hotel rooms, a kitchen and a restaurant. Global internship opportunities at hotels and restaurants across Southeast Asia also form part of the college's industry-focused approach.

Today, Reliance College continues its focus on hospitality and tourism education, offering programmes in areas including hotel management, culinary arts, business management and restaurant operations. It operates from Menara BAC, which provides learning spaces, student accommodation and other facilities.

Reliance College provides a student-friendly campus environment designed to support applied learning. While it may not follow a traditional fully residential university model, students have access to nearby accommodation and essential campus facilities.

Practical Learning Facilities

For students taking hospitality and culinary programmes, practical learning is an important part of the campus experience. Reliance College provides mock hotel rooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen and a restaurant where students can develop practical skills in an environment designed to reflect real hospitality settings.

Facilities at Menara BAC

Students have access to several facilities within Menara BAC, including the Omnia Auditorium, Horizon Banquet Hall, multi-purpose lecture and seminar rooms, meeting rooms and student accommodation. The building also provides 250 carparks.

Menara BAC is also home to an Innovation Hub that supports Malaysian start-ups and entrepreneurs. The campus has received a Green RE Index Gold rating and incorporates energy-efficient and environmentally responsible design features.

Student Life

The wider BAC Education environment provides students with opportunities to take part in clubs, societies, fitness activities and campus events. Students can also access digital learning resources through platforms such as BACLearn and Abacus Digital.

Reliance College offers academic programmes focused on hospitality, restaurant operations, business management and culinary arts. The current course portfolio includes certificate, diploma, and bachelor-level programmes, giving students different study options depending on their academic background and career goals.

Reliance College provides several scholarship and financial support options through the BAC Education Group. These include merit-based and financial aid, sports funding, payment plans, government education loans and selected education funds. The options available can depend on the student's eligibility, programme and funding requirements.

BAC Education Fund

The BAC Education Fund provides merit-based aid for students with outstanding academic or extracurricular achievements, as well as financial aid for students who face financial difficulties. The fund covers eligible foundation, diploma and degree programmes offered by Reliance College, including hospitality and culinary programmes. Both Malaysian citizens and international students are listed as eligible.

Sports Fund

The BAC Sports Fund supports athletes who have competed at state or international level. Eligibility requirements differ for Malaysian and international students, with the fund covering selected foundation, diploma, degree and postgraduate programmes.

Other Financial Support

Students may also access EZ Payment Plans, including monthly instalments and selected 0% interest credit card instalment plans. Malaysian students may apply for PTPTN Loans, while eligible students may also use EPF withdrawals for education. Bank education loans are another option, subject to the individual bank's requirements.

Reliance College offers students access to a wider campus community through the BAC Education ecosystem. Student life includes campus activities, clubs, societies, fitness programmes and events that bring together students from different backgrounds. The college also provides dedicated support for international students, including assistance with the application and visa process.

Clubs, Societies and Campus Activities

Students can take part in a range of clubs and societies covering sports, culture, recreation, creative activities and social interests. The official BAC Education page lists more than 30 clubs and societies, including the International Students Club, Indian Cultural Society, Japanese Club, Badminton Club, Basketball Club, Dance Society, Debate Club, Environmental Club and Gamers Guild.

The wider campus calendar also includes activities such as swimming, yoga, aqua fitness, Muay Thai, futsal and basketball sessions.

International Student Community

Reliance College welcomes international students and provides guidance through the international student process. Students can access support with visa applications and accommodation arrangements. The BAC Student Residences at Menara BAC houses more than 500 students from different countries and is located close to the campus facilities.

The official site also highlights an international community through student experiences from countries including South Korea, Kenya, Pakistan and Brunei Darussalam.

Student Experience

Beyond academic study, students can participate in events, competitions, community activities and cultural programmes. This gives students opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds, develop interests outside the classroom and build connections during their time at Reliance College.

Choosing Reliance College Malaysia gives you access to career-focused programmes in hospitality, culinary arts, restaurant operations and business management. The college combines academic study with practical training and industry exposure, which can help you build skills relevant to your chosen field.

Longstanding Hospitality Education

Reliance College was established in 1987 and has more than 35 years of experience in Tourism and Hospitality education. The college says it has helped thousands of students prepare for careers in the global hospitality industry.

Practical Learning

Students can gain hands-on experience through facilities such as mock hotel rooms, a professional kitchen and a restaurant. These facilities support practical learning alongside classroom-based study.

Industry Exposure

The college highlights global internship opportunities at hotels and restaurants across Southeast Asia. Students can gain workplace experience while developing their professional skills and understanding of hospitality operations.

International Qualifications

The Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts (3+0) is awarded by Business and Hotel Management School in Switzerland and is delivered fully in Malaysia. This gives students the opportunity to pursue an internationally recognised culinary qualification while studying locally.

Financial Support

Eligible students can access financial support through options such as the BAC Education Fund, BAC Sports Fund, payment plans and education loans. The available support depends on the relevant eligibility requirements.

Wider Student Community

As part of the BAC Education ecosystem, students can participate in clubs, societies, sports, cultural activities and campus events. International students also have access to dedicated support for areas such as applications, visas and accommodation.

International students applying to Reliance College Malaysia need to meet the academic and English language requirements for their chosen programme, followed by the student visa process. The exact academic requirement depends on the course. For example, the Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts requires recognised qualifications such as STPM, STAM, Matriculation or Foundation, a relevant Diploma, UEC, or another qualification recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education. International applicants for this degree must also have an IELTS score of at least 5.0 or an equivalent qualification.

Eligibility Requirements

For international applicants, eligibility is assessed according to the entry requirements of the selected course. Requirements may include:

• A recognised secondary, pre-university or diploma qualification, depending on the programme
• The minimum grades, credits or CGPA specified for the chosen course
• English language proficiency where required
• IELTS or an equivalent English qualification for programmes that specify an English requirement
• Other qualifications recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education

For example, the Certificate in Restaurant Operations accepts O-Level with a Grade C in one subject, UEC with Grade B4 in two subjects, SKM Level 2, or another qualification recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education. Its international English requirement can be met through IELTS 4.0 or equivalent, O-Level English credit, English-medium education, or the Reliance English Placement Test.

Documents Required for International Students

For the student visa application, international students are required to provide:

• A recent passport-size photograph, 35mm x 45mm, on a white background
• A copy of the passport, including the data page and pages containing visa information
• Passport observation page, where applicable
• Special pass or exit stamp, if applicable
• Letter of acceptance from the educational institution
• Previous academic certificates and transcripts
• Completed Health Declaration Form
• Signed Personal Bond confirming compliance with Malaysian immigration laws

Reliance and BAC Education's International Student Office assists with submitting the student visa application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS). The college advises students to begin the visa process around two months before their course intake.

Student Visa Process

After the required documents and visa payment are submitted, the International Student Office prepares the application and submits it to EMGS. Once approved, students receive their Visa Approval Letter and Travel Authorisation, allowing them to enter Malaysia. The official BAC Education guidance states that the approval process typically takes 14 working days after submission.

Reliance College Malaysia career opportunities cover hospitality, culinary arts, tourism and business, with practical training and industry exposure.

Career Opportunities

• Hotel Management: Hotel Manager, Resort Manager, Front Office Manager and Event Manager.
• Culinary Arts: Chef de Partie, Sous Chef, Pastry Chef, Kitchen Manager and Culinary Entrepreneur.
• Business Management: Business Development, Operations, Marketing and Entrepreneurship roles.
• Industry Internships: Students can gain practical experience through internships with hotels, resorts and restaurants in Malaysia and overseas.
• International Exposure: Internship opportunities include destinations such as South Korea, Macau and Singapore.
• Graduate Employment: Reliance College reports a 94% graduate employment rate.

Reliance College Alumni

• Global Careers: Reliance College alumni work across international hospitality markets.
• International Destinations: Culinary graduates have progressed to hospitality careers in the United Arab Emirates, Maldives, Thailand and Hong Kong.
• Industry Experience: Alumni have opportunities to build careers across hotels, resorts, restaurants and related businesses.
• Transferable Skills: Hospitality training can also support careers in business management, sales, business development and service-related roles.

Reliance College Malaysia is located in Section 52, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, within the wider Greater Kuala Lumpur area. Petaling Jaya is a well-connected urban area with access to Kuala Lumpur, public transport, shopping, dining and everyday services.

Climate and Weather

• Tropical climate: Malaysia has a warm tropical climate throughout the year.
• Temperatures: Average temperatures generally range from around 23°C to 32°C.
• Rainfall: Rain can occur throughout the year, so students should be prepared for sudden showers.
• What to pack: Lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, an umbrella and rain protection are useful for everyday campus life.

Food and Dining

• Multicultural food: Students can experience Malay, Chinese, Indian and other Asian cuisines.
• Local favourites: Malaysian food culture includes dishes such as nasi lemak, roti canai, satay, laksa and a wide range of rice and noodle dishes.
• International choices: Petaling Jaya and the surrounding Kuala Lumpur area also offer restaurants serving international cuisines.
• Halal options: Halal food is widely available across Malaysia, alongside vegetarian and other dietary choices.

Culture and Student Life

• Multicultural environment: Malaysia brings together Malay, Chinese, Indian and other cultural traditions.
• Languages: Bahasa Melayu is the national language, while English is widely spoken. Mandarin, Cantonese, Tamil and other languages are also commonly heard.
• Festivals: Students can experience celebrations and traditions associated with different cultural and religious communities.
• Everyday experience: Food, festivals, places of worship and community events provide international students with opportunities to experience Malaysian culture.

Transport and Getting Around

• Public transport: Petaling Jaya is connected to Kuala Lumpur through LRT, KTM Komuter and bus services.
• Local buses: MBPJ also operates a free bus service serving parts of Petaling Jaya, including Section 52.
• Road connectivity: The Federal Highway provides a major connection between Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur.
• Exploring Kuala Lumpur: Students can travel between Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur for shopping, entertainment, dining and cultural activities.

Accommodation and Daily Living

• Student residence: BAC Student Residences at Menara BAC provides accommodation within the campus environment.
• Convenient surroundings: Students have access to restaurants, shops, services and public transport around Petaling Jaya.
• Urban lifestyle: Living in Petaling Jaya gives students a combination of city conveniences and access to the wider Kuala Lumpur metropolitan area.
• International community: Students from different countries can experience a multicultural environment while studying and living in Malaysia.

Key Rankings and Recognition

• QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026: Reliance's Diploma in Culinary Arts page highlights BHMS, Switzerland, as ranked #12 globally for Hospitality & Leisure Management.
• BrandLaureate Best Brand in Education: Reliance College states that it received the award in the Hospitality & Tourism category in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
• Internationally recognised qualifications: Several Reliance programmes include international qualifications or dual awards, including qualifications from BHMS, Switzerland and Acetek College, Singapore.

Affiliations and Academic Partners

• BAC Education: Reliance College is part of the wider BAC Education ecosystem.
• BHMS, Switzerland: The Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts is awarded by Business and Hotel Management School, Switzerland, and delivered fully in Malaysia.
• Acetek College, Singapore: The Certificate in Restaurant Operations includes a Diploma in Digital Marketing awarded by Acetek College, Singapore.
• Industry and education network: The official Reliance site lists universities, professional organisations and industry partners within the wider BAC Education network.

Language of Instruction

• English: English is used extensively in Reliance College's teaching and course materials.
• English requirement: International applicants must meet the English requirement specified for their programme.
• English proficiency options: Depending on the course, accepted evidence can include IELTS or equivalent qualifications, previous English-medium education, or the Reliance English Placement Test.
• Additional language modules: Some programmes include Malay language or communication modules for international students.

Reliance College Malaysia offers career-focused programmes in hospitality, culinary arts, restaurant operations and business management. Located in Petaling Jaya, the college combines practical learning with industry training, internship opportunities and access to the wider BAC Education ecosystem.

For international students, the college offers programmes with international academic links, including the Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts, awarded by BHMS, Switzerland. Students can also benefit from student accommodation, international student support and a multicultural campus environment.

With options ranging from certificate and diploma programmes to a bachelor's degree, Reliance College Malaysia courses can suit students looking to build practical skills and pursue careers in hospitality, culinary arts, tourism or business.

Does Reliance College offer a degree that can be completed entirely in Malaysia?

Yes. The Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts (3+0) is awarded by Business and Hotel Management School (BHMS), Switzerland, and delivered fully in Malaysia. This allows students to complete the programme locally while earning the BHMS qualification.

Can students study culinary arts with a dual award option?

Yes. The Diploma in Culinary Arts offers an option with a BHMS Dual Award. Students can choose the programme pathway based on their academic and career plans.

Does Reliance College provide industrial training as part of its programmes?

Yes. Practical and industry-based training is incorporated into relevant hospitality and culinary programmes. Students can gain experience in workplace settings such as hotels, resorts and restaurants.

Can students continue their studies after completing a Reliance College diploma?

Yes. Students completing a relevant diploma can explore further academic progression, subject to the admission requirements of the next programme or partner institution. Reliance also offers a bachelor's-level pathway through its Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts (3+0).

Does Reliance College provide accommodation for students?

Yes. Student accommodation is available through BAC Student Residences at Menara BAC. International students can receive assistance with accommodation arrangements as part of the student support process.

What makes the Certificate in Restaurant Operations different from the diploma programmes?

The Certificate in Restaurant Operations is designed around restaurant operations and includes an additional Diploma in Digital Marketing awarded by Acetek College, Singapore. This gives students exposure to both restaurant operations and digital marketing.

Does Reliance College offer a business programme for students who want to become entrepreneurs?

Yes. The Diploma in Business Management is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. The programme focuses on skills relevant to business success and growth.

Are students able to gain experience outside Malaysia?

Yes. Reliance College highlights international internship opportunities across Southeast Asia. Depending on the programme and available placement opportunities, students may gain exposure to hospitality workplaces outside Malaysia.

Does Reliance College support students who want to work in the restaurant industry?

Yes. Students interested in restaurant careers can choose the Certificate in Restaurant Operations or Diploma in Culinary Arts. The practical focus of these programmes provides training relevant to restaurant and food service environments.

Can international students apply for more than one Reliance College programme?

Students can select the programme that matches their academic qualifications and career plans. Since entry requirements vary between programmes, international applicants should check the specific eligibility criteria for each course before submitting an application.