In celebration of Malaysia’s 67th National Day, the Embassy of Malaysia in Vietnam, in collaboration with the Hanoi Daewoo Hotel, proudly presents the “Taste of Malaysia” Food Festival. This extraordinary event offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Malaysia.
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| Representatives from the Malaysian Embassy and participating artists capture a memorable moment at the Taste of Malaysia event held in Hanoi. Photo courtesy of Ngoc Le. |
From September 12 to 16, Taste of Malaysia opens its doors at the Hanoi Daewoo Hotel, inviting Hanoi’s food enthusiasts on an enchanting journey to discover the vibrant flavors and cultural riches of Malaysia.
As the organizers elaborately explain, the event is meticulously designed not only to foster greater cultural exchange but also to deepen the appreciation of Malaysian traditions. It further serves as an opportunity to reinforce the cultural and diplomatic bonds between Malaysia and Vietnam, our neighboring country.
Dato’ Tan Yang, the esteemed Ambassador of Malaysia to Vietnam, addressed the opening ceremony on September 12, emphasizing the event’s role in showcasing the country’s diverse culinary landscape and the strong ties between the two nations. He further added, “Through this event, we aim to encourage cultural exchange and a deeper understanding of our Malaysian traditions. It is also our pleasure to strengthen the cultural and diplomatic relationship between Malaysia and Vietnam.”
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| His Excellency Dato’ Tan Yang, Ambassador of Malaysia to Vietnam, captivates the audience with his speech at the event’s opening ceremony. Photo: Ngoc Le. |
Malaysia boasts a diverse cuisine that mirrors the intricate weaving of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultural influences. During the festival, the esteemed Malaysian chef, Azlan Juri, will take center stage, presenting a curated selection of traditional Malaysian dishes. These culinary creations will showcase the unique flavors and time-honored cooking techniques of the region.
Among the highlights is Nasi Lemak, a fragrant rice dish prepared with coconut milk and accompanied by savory toppings such as dried fish, roasted peanuts, and sambal, resulting in a burst of rich and spicy flavors.
For those who relish a spicy adventure, Nyonya Laksa, a robust and pungent noodle soup, will tantalize their taste buds. Roti Canai, a beloved Malaysian street food, is another star of the festival, famed for its irresistible flavor and flaky texture.
Guests will also be treated to Daging Rendang Tok, a slow-cooked beef delicacy infused with a rich blend of aromatic spices, and Mamak Rojak, a savory mélange of ingredients coated in a tangy, spicy sauce.
“I have had the pleasure of curating Malaysian culinary events in various countries, and this is my sixth endeavor, marking my first in Vietnam,” Chef Azlan shared with The Hanoi Times. “Sourcing spices needed for traditional Malaysian dishes in Vietnam proved effortless. The fresh local ingredients, including chicken, beef, and seafood, seamlessly integrate with the distinctive Malaysian spices.”
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| Chef Azlan Juri meticulously prepares a traditional Malaysian specialty. Photo: Jenna Duong/The Hanoi Times. |
“Additionally, I have tailored the dishes to harmonize with the palates and preferences of both Vietnamese locals and international visitors,” he further added.
“Taste of Malaysia” is further enhanced by captivating performances of traditional Malaysian dance, elevating the dining experience into a cultural journey. The dance troupe, graciously sent by the Ipoh City Council, enthralled Vietnamese tourists throughout the five-day culinary festival. Attendees also had the opportunity to delve into batik, a traditional Malaysian art form that involves intricate hand-drawn designs on fabric, crafted by local artisans.
The festival holds special significance as it coincides with Malaysia’s Independence Day on August 31 and Malaysia Day on September 16, making it a celebration of the country’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.
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| A vibrant traditional dance performance captivates the audience at the Taste of Malaysia event in Hanoi. Photo: Jenna Duong/The Hanoi Times. |
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