Rasa Sayang first to offer local cuisine on Oxford Street

The newest venture from the owners of Rasa Sayang restaurant in London officially opened recently with a grand ceremony. Rasa Sayang Express is the first Malaysian restaurant to open on Oxford Street, one of London’s busiest shopping streets, in the heart of the West End. Aiming to make Malaysian cuisine available for everyone, the good-sized portions, efficient service and affordable prices mean that customers can be in and out in 30 minutes – perfect for busy shoppers on Oxford Street.

Guests of honour included the High Commissioner of Malaysia Datuk Zakaria Sulong, who officiated at the restaurant’s opening, Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Donald Lim, Deputy High Commissioner Datuk Rustam Yahaya and director of National Heritage for MICCM Nooraine Mohd Noordin. The Malaysia Tourism Board also supported the event, with Abdul Rauf Abu Hassa (director) and Sharon Ho (deputy director) both present.

One for the album: (From left) London Matrade commissioner Raja Badrulnizam Raja Kamalzaman, Lim, Chen, Zakaria and Wendy Chen with (back row) Abdul Rauf at the opening of the restaurant.

After a welcome cup of teh tarik, guests were invited to sample Malaysian cuisine, which exemplified Rasa Sayang Express’s innovative approach of serving the top 10 most popular Malaysian dishes including Nasi Lemak, Beef Rendang, Curry Chicken, Satay and Roti Canai. Entertainment was provided in the form of a traditional Chinese lion dance, set to Malaysian beats, which attracted passers-by. As well as bringing prosperity and fortune to the restaurant for the coming year, the dance gave shoppers a taste of Malaysia.

Restaurant owner and president of the Malaysian Restaurant Association in the UK, Teddy Chen explained: “I am happy that my team here can begin to educate people about what Malaysian food is and help promote Malaysia as a whole, not only as a tourist destination but also as a centre for trade.” Zakaria congratulated Chen on the opening of his second restaurant, expressing his support for investment in restaurants and hospitality in the UK and finally wishing the Malaysian community in the UK a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

The opening of Rasa Sayang Express is just one of the events that is part of a bigger, nationwide campaign to promote Malaysian cuisine and culture in the UK. The Malaysia Kitchen campaign is a Malaysian government initiative supported by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), which aims to encourage consumers in the UK to visit Malaysian restaurants and experiment with the inspiring tastes of Malaysian cuisine. For more information on the restaurant, visit www.rasasayangfood.com.

-thestar online.