Food Significance in Malaysian Culture

When mention Malaysia, foreigners and local alike will think of FOOD. Being a multicultural country, Malaysians are spoil with endless food choices.

In Malaysia, food is just more than food. The act of eating together is a symbolic act to preserve friendships and strengthen networking among groups as Malaysians tends to converse over the food. It is seen that most events in Malaysia includes food and eating together (Asma Abdullah, 2006). This custom is a symbol of demonstrating the hospitality of the host and for relationship building among friends and family. For example, the local mamak stores are usually the late hangout place among teenagers and young adults, especially during the football season. In short, food is a means of socializing in Malaysia.

Most festivals in Malaysians such as Hari Raya, Deepavali, and New Year focuses on eating and drinking. This provide opportunities for individuals to mingle either from same of different ethic groups. Open house concept or Hari Terbuka (malay language of open house), which originated from the malay culture is now a means of celebration of racial co-existence. Malaysians are able to visit other different ethic groups and enjoy various traditional dishes.

Malaysians of different ethic groups take great effort and trouble to ensure the food served are plentiful for all to enjoy (Asma Abdullah, 2006). This is to show the good hospitality and friendliness to their house guests.

Base on this research, is safe to say the food in Malaysia plays a significant role in Malaysian culture so that is why we have chosen to include food images into our revamp billboard.

Reference: 
Pedersen, P., Asma Abdullah. 2006. Understanding Malaysian Culture: delights , puzzles and irritations about Malaysians. Jalan Templer, Petaling Jaya : Pearson Malaysia Sdn Bhd.