S KOREAN ENVOY REFLECTS ON MOMENTS OF JOY, CONNECTION FOR FINAL YEAR IN MALAYSIA

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 31 (Bernama) -- Diverse, vibrant, joy, friendship, and rojak. These are among the words used by South Korean Ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung-bae to commemorate his third and final year in the country.

In an article shared by the South Korean Embassy, Yeo calls Malaysia “in every sense, a nation of diversity” — a striking experience for someone who comes from a relatively homogenous society like Korea.

“The cultural heritage carried by each community is a treasured national asset, and it is precisely this mosaic of traditions that fuels Malaysia’s potential to develop vibrant cultural content and expand its soft power on the global stage,” he writes.

He notes that Malaysia’s rich diversity reveals itself most vividly through its food, festivals, dances, and music.

Yeo adds that while some multicultural societies aspire to a majority-centred “melting pot,” Malaysia has instead chosen a model of coexistence that respects differences and embraces harmony — a true “mosaic society.”

“Diversity and inclusivity in Malaysia have long been celebrated,” he adds.

The willingness of Malaysians today to acknowledge and appreciate one another’s differences, he remarks, reflects the foresight of the nation’s early leaders.

Yeo says that since arriving in Malaysia in October 2022 with his wife, they have visited many states, sampled a wide variety of local delicacies, and been exposed to the country’s cultural diversity.

They have also had many opportunities to engage with the local community. The ambassador says he is honoured to have had the chance to exchange views with people from various backgrounds.

“The past three years have been a journey of deepening friendship and capturing the essence of Malaysia, Truly Asia,” says Yeo.

On a more personal note, the ambassador shares that he is particularly fond of rojak, a popular fruit and vegetable salad.

“Yes, it is from Malaysia. Its unique blend – mango, pineapple, cucumber, and other ingredients tossed in shrimp paste dressing – creates a striking harmony of flavours.”

“Refreshing, slightly spicy, and delightfully healthy, it perfectly suits my taste. I most often recommend it to visitors from Korea, who invariably respond with enthusiasm,” he writes.

Yeo points out that rojak is a well-balanced and delightful combination that no single flavour could offer alone. In many ways, rojak mirrors Malaysia itself — a nation where diverse cultures come together to form something richer than the sum of its parts.

-- BERNAMA