KUALA LUMPUR, 28 February 2022 – Tourism Malaysia’s Ambassador Dato' Chef Ismail Ahmad and SOHOM (The Association of Spouses of Heads of Diplomatic Missions in Malaysia), have initiated the Gastrodiplomacy Programme, which aims to promote Malay cuisine among spouses of ambassadors in Malaysia by experiencing first-hand the preparation of the locals’ comfort food.
The programme began on 15 February and concludes on 28 February, with 25 participants from representatives of the ambassadors’ spouses that participate at Dato’ Chef Ismail’s Rebung Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. It is in line with the initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and its agency, Tourism Malaysia, to promote Malaysia via its diverse gastronomy, despite the industry’s struggles as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Among the traditional Malay cuisine learned by participants were lempeng kelapa (coconut pancakes), nasi goreng kampung, onde-onde, and Malaysians’ favourite, nasi lemak. As the Tourism Ambassador for Gastronomy, Dato’ Chef Ismail took the floor to not only teach cooking skills, but also to expose participants to Malaysia’s tradition and culture. Participants were given the chance to experience Malay traditional games such as congkak and batu seremban.
Mr Iskandar Mirza Mohd Yusof, Deputy Director General (Planning) of Tourism Malaysia, also expressed his appreciation following the accomplishment of highlighting Malaysia through its diverse cuisine, “Our local cuisine not only varies culturally, but one can and should explore the distinctive culinary every state has to offer. Take our locals’ favourite, laksa! The Penang’s Assam Laksa has gained world recognition as it was ranked 7th on CNN Travels’ list of World’s Best 50 Foods.”
He also invited members of SOHOM to take the opportunity to explore the diversity and attractions across the country while they are still here in Malaysia.
-Tourism Malaysia.
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