SUNSHINE, sizzling spices, and cultural splendour filled the air at the International School of Suva (ISS) on Saturday, June 7, 2025, as the much-anticipated Family Fun Day transformed the school grounds into a colourful celebration of global diversity. The heartbeat of this fun day? The Global Food Village, a culinary passport to the world. And at its heart stood one vibrant, flavour-packed stall that stole the show: Malaysia.
The High Commission of Malaysia in Suva proudly showcased a stunning selection of Malaysia’s most beloved dishes. With warmth in their smiles and passion in their cooking, they shared more than food, they offered a taste of home, heritage, and heart.
A feast of flavour and culture
The Malaysian menu was a dazzling tribute to the nation’s multicultural cuisine. Visitors lined up for steaming bowls of Laksa Sarawak, a legendary noodle soup brimming with the tang of tamarind, the richness of coconut milk, and the depth of spices. Immortalised by the late food icon Anthony Bourdain as the “Breakfast of the Gods,” it quickly became a favourite.
Joining the Laksa was a spread that celebrated Malaysia’s culinary soul:
-Beef Soup Rice, a comforting bowl of tender meat and fragrant broth;
-Kaya (Coconut Jam) slathered on soft bread, evoking nostalgia with every bite;
-Seri muka, a glutinous rice and pandan custard dessert as vibrant in colour as in taste;
-Lempeng (rolled pancakes) served with a rich, spiced chicken curry; and
-Intricate roti Jala, or net crepes, artfully paired with pandan or vanilla custard sauce
Each dish was prepared with meticulous care, echoing recipes passed down through generations. The sweet, the savoury, the spicy, it was a celebration of Malaysia’s cultural mosaic, from its Malay, Chinese, and Indian roots to its Bornean soul.
A UNESCO-recognised experience
This culinary showcase was particularly poignant in light of Malaysia’s Breakfast Culture being inscribed in 2024 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This prestigious recognition celebrates the nation’s deeply rooted food traditions that not only fuel the body, but nurture community and identity. “Food is our way of connecting,” said Nor’ Azam Mohd Idrus, High Commissioner of Malaysia to the Republic of Fiji.
“It tells our story. And today, we are honoured to share that story with our Fijian friends.”
Gastronomical diplomacy
Beyond its tantalising tastes, the Malaysia stall served as a symbol of friendship and inclusivity. Azam Mohd Idrus, explained that the Malaysian stall was brought to the International School Suva Fun Day Global Food Village to demonstrate Malaysian food can be flavourful, nutritious, and healthy. He elaborated that in light of Malaysia being the chair of ASEAN in 2025, this is one of the engagements to increase the visibility of Malaysia’s chairmanship. According to him, promoting good nutrition and a healthy diet are among the priority areas of the healthy ASEAN initiatives towards a prosperous ASEAN under the ASEAN socio-cultural community.
Moreover, the event created a space where locals and expatriates could engage in meaningful exchange, with many Fijians expressing curiosity and admiration for Malaysian traditions they had never encountered before.
“This is my first time tasting Malaysian food,” said one Suva local.
“The flavours are so bold and unique, it’s like travelling without leaving Fiji!”
A celebration of ASEAN food and spirit
The High Commission of Malaysia in Suva were not just ambassadors of food — they were ambassadors of ASEAN’s warmth, generosity, and community spirit. Their vibrant attire, heartfelt hospitality, and joyful energy transformed the Malaysia stall into a welcoming haven of celebration. For those who stopped by, the experience was not just about satisfying hunger, it was about being transported. Whether through the aroma of curry leaves, the velvety sweetness of kaya, or the playful texture of roti jala, guests left with full stomachs and fuller hearts. The memories of Malaysia’s and ASEAN’s vibrant presence lingered with culinary enthusiasts. It was a powerful reminder of how food can unite us, spark curiosity, and build bridges between cultures connected by the oceans. With the sights, smells, and smiles of this day, Malaysia and ASEAN made its mark — not just on plates, but in hearts.
- AVANEESH RAMAN is the content curator of blog The A Connection – https:://theaconnection.blogspot.com/. The views expressed in this article are his and is not necessarily shared by this newspaper. For more, log on on to www.fijitimes.com.fj
