Malaysia Showcases Culinary Heritage in Jakarta as Part of VMY 2026 Push

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Nov 18 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is intensifying preparations for Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, highlighting its rich culinary heritage to attract more Indonesian visitors after having welcomed 3.2 million visitors from the country in the first nine months of this year.

Malaysian Ambassador to Indonesia Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin said the nine-day “Flavours of Malaysia” event showcases Malaysia’s culinary heritage while further strengthening people-to-people ties with Indonesia.

He said the two countries share a bond that transcends geography, rooted in common history, culture, language and traditions, with these deep connections reflected in their similar ingredients, cooking styles and flavours.

“Our food reminds us of our common heritage,” he said at the opening ceremony attended by members of the diplomatic corps and the media on Monday evening.

Syed Mohamad Hasrin thanked the Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place, for co-organising the showcase and acknowledged Chef Aik Choon Ng from the Ritz Carlton for curating the menu.

Guests were served Malaysian favourites including nasi lemak, roti canai, curry laksa, char kway teow and chicken rice — dishes he said embody Malaysia’s multiethnic identity.

He said Malaysia continues to use gastrodiplomacy to strengthen its international profile, with the November 18-26 showcase forming part of wider regional promotion efforts.

Looking ahead to VMY 2026, Syed Mohamad Hasrin said more than 320 events are planned nationwide, with Malaysia targeting 4.37 million Indonesian arrivals this year.

“As of September, we are proud to have already welcomed 3.2 million visitors from Indonesia,” he said.

He stressed that cultural initiatives such as this reinforce the shared values underpinning Malaysia-Indonesia relations and support closer ASEAN cooperation.

-- BERNAMA