FOOD is more than sustenance; it is history on a plate, a symbol of cultural identity, and a thriving engine of commerce and trade.
Nowhere was this better demonstrated than at the recent “Jom Makan in Harare” cultural showcase, where the Malaysian embassy turned dining into diplomacy on Thursday last week.
Chargé d’Affaires Mohd Hail Aniff Mohd Fauzi shared his country’s rich culture and cuisine at a colourful function at The Venue in Avondale, Harare, under the theme A Taste of Malaysia, Jom Makan In Harare.
The event, whose name translates to Let’s Eat, was attended by Zimbabwean government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, the Zimbabwean business community, Malaysian diaspora and friends of Malaysia in Zimbabwe.
Fauzi used the occasion to highlight the strong bilateral relations between Malaysia and Zimbabwe.
He reaffirmed both nations' commitment to further strengthening co-operation in trade, investment, education, capacity building and tourism.
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In his address, Fauzi emphasised Malaysia’s role as chair of ASEAN in 2025, celebrating ASEAN’s achievements in economic integration.
Malaysia will host the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 28, a gathering of global leaders to discuss pressing international issues and promote inter-generational dialogue.
The diplomat invited Zimbabweans to explore Malaysia’s dynamic tourism offerings as part of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, highlighting the country’s diverse heritage, natural beauty and warm hospitality.
The culinary showcase served up a vibrant selection of traditional Malaysian dishes, offering guests a unique gastronomic journey. Highlights included Unesco-recognised national staples such as Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai and Teh Tarik, alongside beloved snacks like Karipap (curry puffs), Kuih Keria (sweet potato doughnuts), Ais Kacang (shaved ice dessert) and locally-brewed Kopi Cap Gantang.
A special attraction of the event was a fresh fruit tasting organised in collaboration with Malaysia’s Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority. Guests sampled exotic fruits, including Malaysian pineapples, guavas and the famed durian, often dubbed the "King of Fruits," which, despite its intense aroma, proved to be a surprisingly popular treat.
Entertainment was provided by students from Dzikwa Trust, who performed Malaysian songs such as Standing in the Eyes of the World and Ewa Bulan, reflecting Malaysia’s cultural spirit and its enduring belief in unity through diversity.
“This is the third edition of the food event hosted by our embassy, but this year’s inclusion of durian, made possible by FAMA, made it especially memorable,” Fauzi said.
“We hope to continue this tradition, using food as a cultural bridge and a diplomatic tool to reach diverse audiences, promote mutual understanding and strengthen bonds between Malaysians and Zimbabweans.”
James Lee from the Korean embassy, Malaysian travel agent Christina Loretta Gomm and Aldo Young from the Zimbabwe School of Diplomacy expressed great enthusiasm about the event. The Indian ambassador to Zimbabwe, who once served in Malaysia, remarked that culinary and cultural exchange are powerful tools for fostering economic ties and deepening diplomatic relations.
“Understanding a people’s culture is key to building lasting partnerships,” he said.
The day also featured multimedia displays of key aspects of Malaysia’s rich intangible heritage, including the Wangkang ceremony, Silat martial arts, Mak Yong Theatre, Dondang Sayang musical traditions, Songket weaving and the poetic form of Pantun, all of which contribute to Malaysia’s global cultural identity.
As Malaysia continues to expand its global footprint through initiatives like Visit Malaysia 2026 and regional leadership in ASEAN, events like Jom Makan demonstrate the powerful role that cultural literacy and especially food play in diplomacy.
More than a celebration of flavour, the event offered a window into the country’s soul, reaffirming that cuisine is not just about eating, it's also about understanding, connecting and growing together across nations.