If you’re good at flipping roti canai, a job in Melbourne might be calling.
The pay sounds high, but Malaysians familiar with life there are asking; can you really live comfortably on that?
A tempting offer abroad
A job ad posted by Roti Bar, a Malaysian restaurant in Melbourne, is offering a full-time Roti Canai Chef position with a salary between AUD70,000 to AUD78,000 a year.
That’s roughly RM220,000 to RM245,000, a figure that quickly caught people’s attention online.
But beyond the flashy number, the job comes with specific expectations.
Not just flipping dough
According to the listing, Roti Bar is looking for someone who:
- Has experience making roti canai from scratch
- Can handle high-volume orders during peak hours
- Maintains strong food hygiene standards
- Appreciates and respects Malaysian street food culture
The role also includes staff meals, a supportive kitchen environment, and most notably, visa sponsorship for eligible applicants. These make it an appealing option for those looking to work abroad through a skill-based path.
If you take pride in traditional techniques and can serve up delicious, crispy roti that keeps customers coming back, we want you!” reads the listing.
Mixed Reactions Online
However, as the listing made rounds on Reddit, opinions were divided. For some, the pay seemed fair, especially for a job that doesn’t require a university degree or high-level certifications.
But not everyone was convinced it’s a dream job.
The cost of living in Melbourne
Many pointed out that while the salary looks impressive in ringgit, it paints a very different picture when viewed from the perspective of daily life in Australia.
Some users broke down the typical yearly expenses:
- Tax: ~AUD15,000
- Rent: ~AUD26,000/year for a studio apartment in Melbourne’s city centre
- Transport: ~AUD2,000/year for public transport
- Groceries, utilities, internet: At least AUD5,000
“You’re looking at about AUD50,000 in essential costs alone,” one Redditor said.
The numbers raised concerns, especially for those with families or long-term plans in Australia. Others also highlighted that the job isn’t easy. It’s physical, demanding, and involves long hours in a hot kitchen.
For many, the draw wasn’t just the money. It was the opportunity, with visa sponsorship, kitchen perks, and a chance to live and work abroad doing something they’re good at.
While the job might not lead to a luxurious lifestyle, it does open doors for those looking to start fresh overseas. For skilled roti canai makers hoping to bring their craft to a new country, this could be a chance to do just that, with a few realistic expectations in mind.
Interested in applying? You can check out the job listing here.
