Food Diplomacy Charms Cambodians Ahead Of Visit Malaysia 2026 

By Vijian Paramasivam

PHNOM PENH, June 22 (Bernama) - - Malaysia added another flavour to its ambitious Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign by bringing the best of its diverse cuisines to the Cambodian capital on Saturday.

Tourism Malaysia organised a special gastronomic fair to promote the country’s culinary heritage by hosting the “Malaysia Food and Culture Fest 2025” in the rain-soaked afternoon of Phnom Penh's monsoon season.

Held at the newly designated weekend walk-street along the popular riverside, the symbolic two-day food fair captivated the cosmopolitan Phnom Penh, which itself is known for its vibrant mosaic of international cuisines peddled by foreigners residing in the capital.

In his welcoming address at the event, Malaysian Ambassador to Cambodia Shaharuddin Onn said the nation’s multi-ethnic food culture is paramount in building Malaysian identity and unity.  

“Malaysia has a beautiful mix of people and ethnic groups, from festivals, tradition, languages and customs, and all are living together as a family.

“This spirit of multiculturalism is something we share with Cambodia. This food fest is a showcase of Malaysia’s heart and soul,” Shaharuddin said.

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing is leading a Malaysian delegation to Cambodia, from June 18 to 22 June 2025, to ramp up travel ties and strengthen economic momentum ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026. Cambodia Tourism Minister Huot Hak was the special guest at the event. 

Some 30 Malaysian food and beverage operators and businesses residing in Phnom Penh participated in the colourful event. 

-- BERNAMA