The Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, in partnership with Makati Shangri-La, Manila, has launched “Essence of Malaysia: Malaysian Food Spread @ Circles Shangri-La Makati,” a two-week culinary showcase highlighting Malaysia’s diverse food heritage. The event runs from 5 to 16 November at Circles Event Café.

According to the embassy, the gastronomic program aims to promote Malaysia’s cultural diplomacy efforts in the Philippines by strengthening people-to-people connections and fostering deeper institutional linkages between the two countries.

The initiative is being held with Makati Shangri-La, Manila, known for its hospitality and longstanding role as a venue for international cultural events in the Makati central business district.

The launch ceremony was attended by media, tourism stakeholders and diplomatic partners.

The menu for the showcase features traditional and contemporary Malaysian dishes prepared by two chefs: Chef Edwin from Makati Shangri-La, and Chef Ammar from the Malaysian Embassy.

Among the dishes offered are Rojak Pasembur, a salad with mixed fritters, vegetables, and sweet-spicy peanut sauce; Nasi Minyak, a fragrant rice dish typically served during celebrations; Kerapu Asam Pedas, a spicy and tangy grouper stew; Mee Kari, a coconut-based curry noodle soup; and Ais Kacang, the signature Malaysian shaved ice dessert with syrups, beans, jellies and creamed corn.

The embassy said the food festival forms part of wider efforts to uplift Malaysia’s cultural and gastronomic tourism initiatives under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.