Flavours of Malaysia
The High Commission of Malaysia in South Africa hosts Cultural Diplomacy Showcase Celebrating Food, Culture and Unity
11 November 2026
The High Commission of Malaysia in Pretoria, in collaboration with the International Diplomatic Spouses Association (IDSA), hosted a Coffee Morning programme titled “Flavours of Malaysia: Food, Culture and Unity” at Rumah Malaysia on Friday, 6 November 2026.
The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, government officials and international guests for a vibrant celebration of Malaysia’s multicultural identity, living heritage and culinary diversity.
Distinguished guests attending the event included Ambassador David Malcomsom, Acting Deputy Director-General for Asia and the Middle East, Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO); and Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and senior representatives of the diplomatic corps.
Organised as a public diplomacy and soft power initiative, the programme demonstrated how gastronomy, traditional performing arts and informal engagement serve as universal bridges to deepen international understanding, foster mutual respect and strengthen diplomatic bonds beyond formal negotiations.
In his welcoming remarks High Commissioner of Malaysia Datuk Yubazlan Yusof said that while food brings people to the table, shared values forge lasting friendships.
The gathering highlighted the profound harmony between the Malaysian spirit of ‘Muhibah’ - the practice of togetherness, mutual respect, and unity amidst diversity - and the South African philosophy of ‘Ubuntu’, which emphasises that our shared humanity is enriched through togetherness. Just as South Africa celebrates its Rainbow Nation, Malaysia takes immense pride in its multicultural harmony.
“Food brings us to the table, culture brings us closer, and friendship keeps us together. May the spirit of Ubuntu and Muhibah continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Malaysia, South Africa, and the wider diplomatic community.”
The President of IDSA, Karem Ruis Livieres, conveyed her sincere appreciation to Malaysia for its gracious hospitality and for the excellent arrangements made in hosting the event.
Gastronomic Diplomacy: UNESCO-Recognised Breakfast Culture Takes Centre Stage
The highlight of the morning was a sensory showcase of Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage, focusing on its iconic breakfast culture, which was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024.
Guests were treated to legendary national staples that embody the nation's multi-ethnic harmony – the Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai and Teh Tarik.
The culinary showcase featured live interactive cooking demonstrations of Roti Jala (delicate, lace-like crepes), Cucur Udang (crispy prawn fritters), and Ais Batu Campur (ABC), Malaysia’s signature shaved-ice dessert. The live demonstrations and tasting sessions allowed attendees to experience firsthand how shared food traditions represent a living symbol of unity in diversity.
Showcasing Intangible Cultural Heritage: The Martial Art of Silat
Beyond culinary arts, the programme showcased another cornerstone of Malaysia’s cultural heritage: Silat, Malaysia’s traditional martial art, which was inscribed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019.
The live demonstration introduced guests to the noble philosophy behind Silat. Far beyond physical self-defence techniques, Silat embodies fundamental values of discipline, respect, courage, self-control, and perseverance, illustrating the breadth of Malaysia's intangible cultural legacy to an international audience.
Interactive Diplomacy and Cultural Engagement
Adding a lively and engaging dimension to the programme, guests were invited to participate in a series of interactive activities that celebrated cultural diversity and offered a closer appreciation of Malaysia’s rich heritage.
The highlights included a Best Traditionally Dressed Competition, which showcased the beauty and diversity of traditional and culturally inspired attire. Three participants were recognised and presented with appreciation for their outstanding ensembles.
Guests also enjoyed a Malaysian Product Lucky Draw, featuring a selection of specially curated Malaysian products as commemorative gifts, offering participants a taste of Malaysia’s vibrant local offerings.
These activities added colour and excitement to the occasion, fostering meaningful interaction and cultural exchange among attendees. Together with the traditional performances, culinary offerings and warm Malaysian hospitality, the programme provided a vibrant platform for cultural appreciation and people-to-people engagement, bringing UNESCO - recognised Malaysian heritage closer to the audience through an immersive and memorable public diplomacy experience.
Malawakil Pretoria