The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (MayCham) chairman, Loh Wee Keng, believes that the popularity of Musang King durian will not only benefit the local economy but also help to promote various Malaysian dishes and culture in China. The three-day Rasa Malaysia Festival, which began on Friday, showcases popular Malaysian dishes such as nasi lemak, satay, and Ipoh curry mee, along with lion dance performances and demonstrations of Malay martial arts. In addition to the stalls from Malaysia, there are also 10 stalls from Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and China, covering Beijing and several other provinces, thus enhancing the country’s tourism sector.
Loh Wee Keng stated, “Musang King is gaining increasing attention and demand from people in China. Many are showing interest and cannot wait to try it.” The festival is expecting at least 50,000 visitors and has sold 5,000 tickets in advance within a week. The festival is taking place at the Taikooli Sanlitun West Beijing shopping mall, which is conveniently located and expected to attract more visitors. It is the first time the festival is being held.
As for the name and theme of the Rasa Malaysia Festival, Loh Wee Keng hopes that visitors can experience Malaysian culture firsthand. He also expressed his optimism that the event would further strengthen diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, especially since next year marks their 50th year of diplomatic ties.
Tengku Eliza Ibrahim, the chief coordinator of the Rasa Malaysia Festival and also the owner of various Malaysian food stalls, hopes that the event will serve as a platform to showcase the unique flavors of Malaysian cuisine to the local community. She further explained, “We have prepared different menus, selecting popular and favorite Malaysian dishes.”
Credit: The Star : News Feed
