“Journey to Malaysia: Exploring Diverse Flavors and Culinary Traditions of Southeast Asia” Food Festival at Zamana Restaurant, Serena Hotel, Islamaba

On 4 September 2025, the High Commission of Malaysia in Islamabad, in collaboration with Serena Hotel, officially launched the “Journey to Malaysia: Exploring Diverse Flavors and Culinary Traditions of Southeast Asia” Food Festival at Zamana Restaurant, Serena Hotel. The week-long festival runs from 4 to 10 September 2025, offering an immersive culinary experience of Malaysia’s vibrant food heritage.
 
The festival was inaugurated by His Excellency Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, alongside Mr. Christoph Hoeflich, General Manager of Serena Hotels. The opening ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, business community, media representatives, and friends of Malaysia.
 
The Journey to Malaysia Food Festival highlights Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage through its traditional cuisine. Guests are invited to savour iconic dishes such as Roti Canai (flaky flatbread served with curry), Nasi Lemak (coconut milk rice with sambal and condiments), and Teh Tarik (Malaysia’s signature pulled tea). A wide selection of appetisers, mains, and desserts are being prepared by chefs specially flown in from Malaysia, showcasing the unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions that form Malaysia’s gastronomic identity.
 
Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Dato' Azhar expressed his appreciation to Serena Hotel for hosting the event and noted that food serves as a bridge that brings people and cultures closer together. He highlighted that the festival coincides with Malaysia’s 68th National Day celebrations and reflects the country’s theme of Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni, which places people and community at the centre of progress.
 
The festival is also an opportunity to promote Malaysia’s upcoming tourism initiatives, including its role as ASEAN Chair in 2025 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which aims to attract visitors from across the globe to discover the nation’s rich culture, diverse attractions, and warm hospitality.
 
Over the course of the week, visitors to Zamana Restaurant will be treated not only to authentic Malaysian cuisine but also to a visual showcase on a large screen highlighting Malaysia’s natural beauty, diverse tourist attractions, and upcoming initiatives such as the ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The combination of food and visuals offers guests a complete journey into the rich culture and future vision of Malaysia.