CJMY
In a vibrant celebration of diversity and unity, Asia Pacific University of Malaysia (APU) hosted its 2023 International Food Festival, a delightful feast for the senses. The event, attended by over 400 guests, featured an array of traditional attires and a delectable gourmet spread from a multitude of countries.
The festival, which coincided with Malaysia’s 66th National Day, showcased the rich tapestry of cultures present within APU’s diverse community. It was a testament to the dedicated efforts of APU staff and students, who collaborated tirelessly for nearly three weeks leading up to the event.
The festivities commenced with the iconic Malaysian rock song, “Standing in the Eyes of the World,” originally performed by the renowned rock singer, Ella. This was followed by captivating traditional performances from Middle Eastern, Japanese, Russian, and African students, who showcased their respective cultures through dance.
A global gastronomic delight
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the gastronomic journey it offered. Guests had the privilege of savouring delicacies from 18 different countries.
Choices ranged from African Fadira and Sambusa to Central Asian Beshmarmak, Timor-Leste’s Tukir Naan Bibi, and an array of Malaysian delights like Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, and traditional Kuehs. The Japan booth not only tantalised taste buds but also offered guests the chance to have their names written in Japanese calligraphy.
Datuk Parmjit Singh, CEO of APU, expressed his delight in witnessing this celebration of diversity and culture. He emphasised how events like these exemplify camaraderie, teamwork, and solidarity among APU staff and international students.
Event coordinator Sharen Kaur highlighted the importance of such multicultural events in helping international students connect, make new friends, and overcome challenges like homesickness.
“Getting students to organise and join multicultural events like this would allow them to make new friends and connect with other international students instantly. The emphasis of this event is on communication, teamwork, and bonding,” she added.
A memorable experience for students
Students from various countries shared their enthusiasm for the event. Siblings from Madagascar praised the unique blend of cultures, while students from Japan, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Djibouti were thrilled by the enriching experience and unity displayed. FELDA-sponsored students from APU who played a pivotal role in organizing the event expressed their joy and fulfilment.
Mirado and Mirasoa Andriambololona, siblings hailing from Madagascar, expressed their admiration for the International Food Festival’s fusion of cultures through food and music. They found this festival to be a distinct and unparalleled experience compared to the ones they had previously attended in their homeland.
Beydan Niman Abdillahi from Djibouti also said, “Today, I have seen what unity can do to us. With a team, we can achieve much more. We all smile in the same language today!”
Ryo Tsuruta, Tomomi Nakamura, Serina Hiranuma, and Ami Itabashi expressed their appreciation for the diverse experience provided by the event, highlighting its uniqueness compared to what they typically encounter in Japan. They collectively noted that it was their first time participating in such an event, one that made them feel like they were embracing the entire world in a single celebration.
Intengenov Eduard, hailing from Kazakhstan, expressed his joy at introducing the culinary delights of his homeland to fellow students from around the globe. He remarked that the event provided him with a firsthand experience that exceeded what he could have gained from the internet, and he appreciated having everything gathered under one roof.
Nepomniashchaia Anastasiia, from Russia, shared her sentiment, calling it the most unforgettable experience she’s had in Malaysia. She believed that such an event would be hard to come by back in Russia.
In conclusion, APU’s International Food Festival 2023 was not just a culinary extravaganza but a celebration of cultures, unity, and the remarkable diversity that defines APU’s international community. It was an event where the world came together under one roof, leaving everyone with cherished memories of this grand celebration.
C. Khor
