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Essence of Malaysia: A culinary celebration at Makati Shangri-La

Published Nov 12, 2025 04:41 pm
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino delivers his message.
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino delivers his message.
The Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, in collaboration with Makati Shangri-La, Manila, proudly presents the “Essence of Malaysia: Malaysian Food Spread @ Circles Shangri-La Makati”—a two-week gastronomic showcase celebrating the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Malaysia. Running from November 5 to 16, 2025, at Circles Event Café, this initiative offers guests an immersive dining experience that highlights the authentic flavours and vibrant traditions of Malaysian cuisine.
This cultural programme is made possible through a strategic partnership with Makati Shangri-La, Manila, a venue renowned for its world-class hospitality, refined ambience, and exceptional culinary concepts. Located in the heart of Makati’s central business district, the hotel has long served as a distinguished setting for diplomatic events, international gatherings, and cultural showcases.
The launch ceremony was attended by H.E. Megawati Manan, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam Consul Michael Alexander M. Ang of the Consulate of Jordan, Deputy Assistant Secretary Rona Beth G. Goce of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal of the Department of Trade and Industry, Liliosa Libosada of the Department of Tourism,  and friends from the media of the embassy. It aims to elevate Malaysia’s cultural diplomacy in the Philippines, foster deeper institutional linkages, and strengthen people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Ais Kacang (shaved ice dessert)
Ais Kacang (shaved ice dessert)
Mee Kari (noodle soup featuring a curry-flavored broth)
Mee Kari (noodle soup featuring a curry-flavored broth)
Guests lining up to have a taste of Malaysian dishes
Guests lining up to have a taste of Malaysian dishes
Kerapu Asam Pedas (a grouper fish stewed in a spicy and sour gravy)
Kerapu Asam Pedas (a grouper fish stewed in a spicy and sour gravy)
Rojak Pasembur (Malaysian salad)
Rojak Pasembur (Malaysian salad)
Acclaimed Malaysian chefs—Chef Edwin of Shangri-La Makati and Chef Ammar from the Malaysian Embassy
Acclaimed Malaysian chefs—Chef Edwin of Shangri-La Makati and Chef Ammar from the Malaysian Embassy
At the heart of the event is a specially curated menu crafted by two acclaimed Malaysian chefs—Chef Edwin of Shangri-La Makati and Chef Ammar from the Malaysian Embassy. Their culinary expertise brings to life a vibrant array of traditional and contemporary Malaysian dishes, including: Rojak Pasembur – A colourful salad of mixed fritters and vegetables drizzled with spicy-sweet peanut sauce; Nasi Minyak – Fragrant rice infused with ghee and spices, traditionally served during festive occasions; Kerapu Asam Pedas – A tangy-spicy grouper fish stew that showcases the bold flavours of Malay cuisine; Mee Kari – A rich curry noodle dish harmoniously blended with coconut milk and spices; Ais Kacang – Malaysia’s iconic shaved ice dessert topped with syrups, sweet beans, jellies, and creamed corn
These dishes are more than just culinary delights—they are stories of migration, trade, and friendship, woven into the fabric of Malaysia’s multi-ethnic identity.
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, shared his heartfelt reflections during the launch: “This culinary showcase is not just about delicious dishes—it is about celebrating who we are as Malaysians, a nation built on diversity, harmony, and shared traditions. Food, for us, is more than just something we eat. It connects us across families, communities, and generations. Every dish you will taste tonight tells a story.”
He further emphasized the shared love for food and hospitality between Malaysians and Filipinos, noting: “Through this programme, we hope to share with our Filipino friends and the international community a little piece of Malaysia—our flavours, our warmth, and our spirit of unity in diversity.”
This initiative also aligns with Malaysia’s broader efforts to promote cultural and gastronomic tourism under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, inviting the world to discover Malaysia as a destination rich in heritage, hospitality, and culinary excellence.

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