KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 — The 46th Asean Summit senior officials’ meetings are underway at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, and while diplomacy is at its core, Malaysia is putting its cultural richness in the spotlight.
Held on May 26 and 27, the summit is more than a platform for regional dialogue. It also doubles as a celebration of Malaysia’s arts, heritage, hospitality and culinary diversity, offering delegates from Asean and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations a deeper taste of the host nation.
This marks Malaysia’s fifth time hosting the summit, and this year’s edition is especially significant.
It includes the second Asean-GCC Summit and the inaugural Asean-GCC-China Summit, signalling the bloc’s expanding global reach and the inclusion of new partners such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain.
From arrival to agenda, the Malaysian touch is evident — with organisers aiming to leave a lasting impression of cultural warmth and hospitality.
Arts and tradition at the forefront
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, one of the summit’s co-organisers, is transforming the event into a cultural spectacle.
Attendees are treated to traditional performances, art installations and ‘live’ handicraft demonstrations, all taking place at the summit venue.
These showcases aim to immerse guests in Malaysia’s diverse artistic traditions, with cultural attire and musical performances adding to the festive atmosphere.
Homegrown products in the spotlight
Running alongside the summit is a trade exhibition featuring some 25 Malaysian exhibitors — from major corporations and government agencies to small enterprises.
Themed around inclusivity and sustainability, the showcase gives businesses a platform to tap into markets across Asean and the GCC.
Visitors can explore Malaysian crafts, sample local food and beverages, and discover services offered by domestic companies.
The event not only promotes economic collaboration but also reflects the country’s innovation and creativity.
Malaysia on a plate: A summit feast
Inside KLCC’s central kitchen, a high-level culinary operation is being orchestrated by Executive Chef Hisham Jaafar — known for catering past summits attended by leaders such as former US president Barack Obama and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The menu draws from Malaysia’s multicultural roots, offering delegates a taste of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and East Malaysian cuisine.
Dishes include Baba and Nyonya favourites, Sabah and Sarawak delicacies like umai and kinilau, and beloved desserts such as seri muka, bingka, roti jala and murtabak.
Diplomacy with a cultural touch
Beyond official talks, the summit’s cultural programming underscores Malaysia’s belief in the power of cultural diplomacy.
By highlighting heritage, cuisine and hospitality, the event fosters deeper regional ties while presenting Malaysia as a vibrant cultural hub.
This isn’t new for Malaysia. At the 27th Asean Summit in 2015, the country introduced the theme “Our People, Our Community, Our Vision,” emphasising socio-cultural unity across the region.
A gala dinner featuring cultural performances captured that spirit of togetherness — a tradition that continues at this year’s summit.
