Cover Bak kut teh (Photo: avlxyz/Flickr)
Bak kut teh (Photo: avlxyz/Flickr)
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Spoiler alert: Malaysia’s national dish of nasi lemak is a top hit!
Malaysia Day is just around the corner on September 16, 2024, and is a celebration that represents unity. Our food-loving country is a melting pot of culture, home to a myriad of flavours that transcends all heritage.
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This season, we asked chefs, restaurant owners, and industry professionals what dish represents the country best to them, and why. From ice kacang and curry noodles to bak kut teh and of course, nasi lemak, here were their answers, and why these dishes are ones they hold so close to their heart.
Nasi lemak
“For me, it will be nasi lemak. I love nasi lemak!” — Raymond Tham, Beta KL
“Nasi lemak! When I took my first flight to Malaysia, that’s what was served on the flight.” — Erina Gomez, Frangipaani
“It still has to be nasi lemak for me. I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t like nasi lemak.” — Siti Kader, Siti Li Dining
“Nasi lemak. It’s probably everybody’s answer, but it’s because it is Malaysia’s dish. It transcends all layers of society.” — Shareen Ramli, Siti Li Dining
Ice kacang
“Ice kacang. It’s a good mix of disparate ingredients, but also, it tastes good!” — Loh Yi Jun (@jun.and.tonic)
Curry noodles
“Curry noodles. It is unique to Southeast Asia. Ipoh is quite famous for a lot of curry mee!” — Chong Yu Cheng, Terra Dining
Bak kut teh
“Bak kut teh, because I miss it a lot during my overseas trips.”— Aidan Low, Akar Dining
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About
Katelyn is the dining and travel editor of Malaysia and Indonesia. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she offers readers an inside look at the movers and shakers in Asia’s growing food and beverage industry.
