KARACHI, Sep 3, 2026: Malaysian cuisine took centre stage in Karachi as diplomats, hospitality professionals and chefs gathered for a programme highlighting the country’s culinary traditions and cultural links with Pakistan.
Addressing the gathering, Malaysian Consul General Mohd Yunus said the ties between Malaysia and Pakistan extended beyond geography, with shared heritage, family values, respect for elders, hospitality and a love of cuisine creating connections between their peoples. “Our two countries may be geographically apart, but there are many things that bring our people close,” Yunus said.
He noted that Malaysians and Pakistanis both took their cuisine seriously, joking that the two countries might disagree over “how spicy is really spicy.”
“But I think we can agree on one thing: a good meal is always best if we share,” Yunus said and described Malaysian food as a reflection of the country’s diverse character, shaped over generations by Malay, Chinese, South Asian and indigenous communities.
He said dishes including nasi lemak, satay, rendang, laksa and roti canai represented more than what was served at the table, offering a glimpse into Malaysia’s history, diversity and way of life.
The Malaysian Consul General also referred to nasi kandar, describing it as a dish with South Asian roots that had evolved over time within Malaysian culture, incorporating local tastes and flavours.
Drawing a parallel with Pakistan, Yunus said cuisine in both countries was closely connected with family, hospitality and identity.
“From biryani to nihari to kebab and countless regional dishes, Pakistani food tells stories about its people and its different communities,” he said.
He said the occasion was not about determining which cuisine was better but about recognising common ground while appreciating differences.
“So today is not about deciding which cuisine is better. It is about discovering what we have in common and enjoying the differences,” Yunus said.
The Consul General of Malaysia, who recently assumed his duties in Karachi, said cultural and people-to-people connections were an important part of Malaysia’s engagement with Karachi and Sindh. He expressed hope that the Taste of Malaysia programme would give guests an opportunity to learn more about Malaysian culture and society.
Thai Consul General Surashete Boontinand said cuisine could also serve as a means of fostering understanding between different cultures and communities.
Boontinand said the Thai Consulate was planning a Thai food promotion in Karachi in about two weeks, adding that he saw a similar spirit in the Malaysian programme.
“Food is not only the food that we eat every day, but it is an ingredient of love, an ingredient of understanding, and an ingredient of friendship,” he said.
He expressed hope that the programme would be successful and that guests would enjoy the occasion and return home happy.
Honorary Consul General of Côte d’Ivoire Fazal Karim Dadabhoy, Raza Abbas, the hotel’s general manager, and others also spoke.
