The 2020 National Multicultural Festival (NMF) was held from 21 to 23 February at the Canberra City Centre. Organised by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government for the past 24 years since 1996, the three-day event saw the participation of various organisations and diplomatic entities, dedicated to showcasing their unique culture and cuisine.
As in previous years, the High Commission of Malaysia in Canberra participated in the Festival on 22 February 2020, under the ‘ASEAN Village’, located at the Petrie Plaza. The Opening Ceremony of the ASEAN Village 2020 was officiated by Mr. Andrew Barr, Chief Minister of ACT and Mr. Chris Steel, Minister for Multicultural Affairs of ACT.
Led by the HBS of the High Commission as well as the Consulate in Sydney, several of their children and Malaysian students in Canberra, three performances were presented at the opening ceremony, featuring two songs Ulik Mayang by Ms Norzinani Mohd Zain and Bila Larut Malam by Mr Roslan Rajab; and the traditional Zapin dance.
In promoting Visit Malaysia Year 2020, the High Commission also participated in the 3-km parade showcasing a traditional Malay wedding entourage. The traditionally attired bride and groom were accompanied with Bungga Manggar, ladies carrying the hantaran trays accompanied by a kompang troupe singing traditional Malay wedding songs.
Various Malaysian delicacies such as murtabak, roti canai, satay and curry puffs were on sale at the stall and Malaysian products such as teh tarik, nasi impit and biscuits were also promoted.
Former MasterChef winner, Malaysian Australian cook, Adam Liaw also shared his culinary skills during the festival.
