From the aroma of simmering curries to the gentle sweetness of shaved ice desserts, the story of Malaysia’s culinary heritage is one told through flavour. This November, that story comes alive in Manila.
In collaboration with Makati Shangri-La, Manila, the Embassy of Malaysia presents Essence of Malaysia: Malaysian Food Spread @ Circles Shangri-La Makati, a two-week gastronomic showcase running from November 5 to 16, 2025.
More than a celebration of cuisine, the programme is a cultural dialogue—one that invites diners to discover Malaysia’s rich, multi-ethnic identity through its most universal language: food.
“This culinary showcase is not just about delicious dishes,” said Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines. “It is about celebrating who we are as Malaysians—a nation built on diversity, harmony, and shared traditions. Food, for us, is more than just something we eat. It connects us across families, communities, and generations.”
At the centre of this experience are Chef Edwin of Makati Shangri-La and Chef Ammar from the Embassy of Malaysia, whose shared passion brings a balance of tradition and innovation to the table. Their curated menu reads like a love letter to Malaysian cuisine: Rojak Pasembur, a vibrant salad of fritters and vegetables drizzled with peanut sauce; Kerapu Asam Pedas, a tangy-spicy grouper stew; Mee Kari, a rich curry noodle dish infused with coconut milk and aromatic spices; and Ais Kacang, the nostalgic sweetness of shaved ice layered with colourful syrups, beans, and jellies.
“Every dish you will taste tonight tells a story,” Ambassador Castelino continued. “A story of migration, trade, culture, and friendship—stories that have shaped Malaysia’s identity through the centuries.”
The initiative also reflects Malaysia’s broader efforts to strengthen cultural ties with the Philippines through shared experiences at the table. Supported by the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, Essence of Malaysia embodies the spirit of culinary diplomacy—where taste becomes a bridge between cultures.
“Through this programme, we hope to share with our Filipino friends and the international community a little piece of Malaysia—our flavours, our warmth, and our spirit of unity in diversity,” said the Ambassador. “It is also our way of strengthening the cultural ties and friendship between Malaysia and the Philippines, two nations that share so much in common, especially our love for food and hospitality.”
Set within the elegant atmosphere of Circles Event Café, Makati Shangri-La’s vibrant food hall known for its interactive theatre stations, the showcase captures the rhythm of global dining while honouring authenticity. Here, amid the hotel’s timeless sophistication, flavours and cultures converge—reminding guests that food, in its truest form, is an experience meant to be shared.
