Sharing of culture, cuisine
AS the diplomatic relationship between Malaysia and China moves into its 51st year, it is crucial for the people from both countries to appreciate each other’s culture to further strengthen mutual understanding.
Music, dance and culinary delights from both nations were showcased during a four-day event called “China and Malaysia – A Celebration of Culture, Tradition and Culinary Excellence”.
It was organised by IOI Properties Group (IOIPG) in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, Fujian Shaanxi Chamber of Commerce, Xi’an Time-Honoured Brand Association and Shaanxi General Chamber of Commerce Malaysia.
IOIPG head of hotels Alan Yau said the Malaysia-China bond went far beyond official agreements as both countries had a shared history, enriched by trade, heritage and friendship.
“Throughout the past four days, we have witnessed mesmerising performances, indulged in exquisite flavours and shared unforgettable experiences, by exposing ourselves to the rich cultural traditions of Malaysia and China.
“Tonight, we want to bring forward the best of both worlds through music, dance and culinary artistry,” said Yau during the gala dinner in IOI Resort City, Selangor, that marked the climax of the event.
He said the celebration was not only about showcasing food and performances, but also to strengthen the mutual respect and understanding between Malaysia and China through an exchange of culture and traditions as well as the nuances of doing business.
“With IOIPG’s presence in Xiamen, China, this event is an important step in nurturing deeper connections economically and celebrating the shared values that bind all of us together, irrespective of nationalities,” said Yau.
The celebration included specially choreographed flash mob dances incorporating elements of Northern Shaanxi folk songs and storytelling as well as the Shaanbei Yangge fan dance.
The flash mobs were featured at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur and IOI shopping centres in Damansara and Puchong.
The festivities also included a dinner filled with captivating performances from China, such as folklore storytelling and Tang Dynasty Roly-Poly Dance, accompanied by a delicious fusion of Malaysian and Chinese cuisines, IOIPG said in a media statement.
The gala dinner, meanwhile, showcased a dance performed by Malaysian and Chinese dancers that combined cultural elements from both countries.
Some of the attendees even danced with them on the stage.
The audience was also entertained by other performances, such as a Four Beauties of China fashion show, a la mian (noodle) showcase and the Dunhuang Flying Apsaras dance.
Present at the gala dinner were Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general Samuel Lee and Xi’an Heritage Brands Association president Yang Xiao, who participated in a roast lamb-cutting ceremony.
Lee said mutual understanding was essential for a harmonious relationship between Malaysia and China.
“Tonight, we are exposed to various culinary delights from China, which is a good thing to further enhance our understanding of China’s culture.
“The harmonious relationship will not only boost tourism but can also leverage our economy and businesses,” he said.