MALAYSIA GASTRONOMY FESTIVAL DELIGHTS CROWDS WITH MOUTH-WATERING BUFFET

From Marfika Adnan Haris Fadzilah

BEIJING, Nov 14 (Bernama) -- Nasi lemak, lontong, rendang, and satay were among the popular Malaysian dishes that drew crowds from various countries at the 2024 Malaysia Gastronomy Festival held here recently.

Nadia Jovita, 29, from Indonesia, expressed her excitement at the opportunity to taste Malaysian cuisine, which she described as uniquely appealing.

"I've never had the chance to visit Malaysia. So I'm really happy to finally try some of the popular dishes at this festival. I really love nasi lemak, it tastes so delicious.

"The food here also reminds me of Indonesian dishes since we are neighbours. I hope this event can be held every year and that more people will be invited to try Malaysian cuisine," she told Bernama.

Approximately 300 people attended the event at the Shangri-La Hotel, where they could feast on over 50 types of Malaysian dishes, traditional cakes, and fruits buffet-style while being entertained by traditional Malaysian songs.

The buffet included nasi dagang, mamak mi goreng, fruit rojak, roti jala, roti canai, ais kacang, Malaysian ice cream, kuih ketayap and kuih koci.

Dhambar Prasad Acharya, 30, from Nepal, described all the food served at the event as delicious and was eager to try as many as possible. 

"The range of dishes presented was both extensive and incredibly diverse, reflecting Malaysia's rich heritage and multicultural influences. From aromatic spices to intricate flavours, each dish offered a unique taste and a delightful culinary journey," he said, adding that he particularly enjoyed lontong.

Meanwhile, Aaliyah Martin, 25, a journalist from Dominica, said the festival was extraordinary, and she was thrilled to join Malaysians in experiencing and learning about their food and culture.

"If I had to describe it in one word, it would be “exceptional!” The warmth of the Malaysian people was truly remarkable. They encouraged us to try so many different dishes, and all we had to do was say, 'Why not?

“The food was amazing - well-seasoned and reminiscent of the flavours back home in the Caribbean. Though they were different, the tastes felt surprisingly familiar, reflecting the beauty of cultural connections,” said Aaliyah, who also took the opportunity to participate in the traditional Malay dance performance. 

Meanwhile, Malaysia's Ambassador to China, Datuk Norman Muhamad, said the event successfully introduced Malaysia to foreign countries, especially China, allowing them to better appreciate the country's food culture.

"This is part of our cultural diplomacy. I believe the best aspect to share is food and gastronomy. Malaysia has a rich and fascinating gastronomic tradition that deserves to be showcased.

"While some dishes may be found in other Asian countries, the way they are prepared and their flavours are distinctly different," he said, adding that he plans to highlight Malaysian Chinese cuisine at next year's festival.

-- BERNAMA