Programme at ASEAN Secretariat highlighted Malaysia’s culinary heritage and the role of food diplomacy.
Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn delivered opening remarks at the “Malaysia Truly Asia: Malaysian Flavours” programme at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, organised by the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to ASEAN. The programme celebrated Malaysia’s culinary heritage and cultural diversity while highlighting the role of food diplomacy in promoting mutual understanding and friendship within the ASEAN Community.
The event was attended by H.E. Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, ambassadors, members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, representatives of ASEAN Dialogue Partners and officials of the ASEAN Secretariat. It provided an opportunity for participants to experience Malaysia’s culinary traditions and recognise food as a means of cultural exchange and diplomatic engagement.
In his opening remarks, Dr Kao expressed his appreciation to the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to ASEAN for organising the programme. He noted that relationships between countries and communities developed not only through formal meetings but also through shared cultural experiences.
“Gatherings like this show that our friendship and cooperation grow not only just through official meetings, but also through shared experiences and a genuine delight in one another’s cultures, food, and friendship,” he said.
Dr Kao highlighted the importance of food beyond its role in daily life, describing it as a symbol of civilisation, a form of art and an instrument of diplomacy. He also observed that Southeast Asia’s culinary traditions had been shaped over centuries by trade, migration and the exchange of spices, ingredients and cooking techniques.
Referring to ASEAN’s identity, he noted that the paddy rice stalks in the ASEAN Emblem symbolised the vision of the organisation’s Founding Fathers for a region united in friendship and solidarity. He also highlighted rice as a staple deeply rooted in the traditions and livelihoods of Southeast Asian communities, citing Malaysia’s nasi lemak as an example of the region’s shared culinary heritage.
Dr Kao further described the programme as an example of culinary diplomacy in practice, noting that sharing meals could deepen mutual understanding and strengthen relationships within the ASEAN Community.
“Through the simple yet meaningful act of sharing a meal, we deepen mutual understanding, strengthen friendships, and bring our ASEAN Community closer together,” he said.
He concluded by thanking Ambassador Sarah and her team for organising the programme and expressing his wishes for participants to enjoy a memorable gathering celebrating Malaysian food and culture.
Source: ASEAN
