Durian Tastes Like Blue Cheese, PM Anwar Charms 57th AEM Gala Dinner Attendees

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- "ASEAN diplomacy" came alive tonight as attendees of the 57th ASEAN Economic Ministers' (AEM) Meeting and related meetings Gala Dinner were served durian, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim likening its taste to that of blue cheese.

Anwar, who is also the Chairman of ASEAN 2025, highlighted that serving durian, which is Malaysia's king of fruits, alongside local delicacies, was a test of Malaysia's resolve to introduce ASEAN diplomacy to the global stage.

"Some of you are not yet familiar with durian, but I would strongly suggest that you try it. It is like blue cheese — you either like it or you hate it," he said during his keynote address at the Gala Dinner for the 57th AEM Meeting here on Wednesday.

Also present were ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn; Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz; the Philippines' Secretary of Trade and Industry, Ma Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, as the next AEM chairperson; ASEAN economic ministers and representatives; as well as ASEAN dialogue partner representatives.

According to Anwar, ASEAN is not merely an ordinary region but one with boundless promise, and he urged the grouping to unlock its full potential for the benefit of its people, partners and future generations.

"Malaysia remains committed to ensuring that growth is inclusive, that no member state is left behind, and that the dividends of integration are equitably shared," he added.

Meanwhile, Tengku Zafrul, in his opening remarks, said the buffet spread at the Gala Dinner reflected the unity and centrality of the ASEAN community.

"We have nasi lemak, gado-gado, chicken rice, pad thai, adobo and so forth. And while we may debate which is best, we all agree no one leaves an ASEAN dinner hungry," he said.

-- BERNAMA