Mid-Autumn at Huashan is infused with Malaysian flair — exotic cuisines fill Taipei

Text / Compiled and reported by the editorial team of MOOK Travel & Lifestyle

 

Organized by the Ministry of Foreign AffairsThe third Asia-Pacific Cultural Day will make its vibrant debut at Huashan 1914 Creative Park on September 6 and 7; the most culturally distinctive Malaysian pavilion will treat Taipei citizens to an exquisitely exotic Mid-Autumn feast. In addition to live demonstrations on crafting traditional Malaysian kites, visitors can also try on traditional costumes of Malaysia’s various ethnic groups and take commemorative photos. A wide array of stunning handmade crafts on display will leave you in awe, while the food zone offers the most authentic Malaysian desserts and white coffee for all attendees. There are also numerous gifts to bring home. To experience Malaysian culture without leaving Taiwan, don’t miss the “Asia-Pacific Cultural Day,” which promises a fragrant coconut-infused Mid-Autumn celebration — fulfilling your ultimate desires for culture, craftsmanship, and cuisine.

Crescent kites shine bright at Huashan Unveiling Malaysian handicrafts

Kites are a traditional toy found in every country and represent local cultural characteristics, but have you ever seen a crescent-shaped kite? Malaysia’s traditional kites (Wau) are handcrafted through generations, and the traditional kite-making process — rarely seen even within Malaysia — along with a variety of handicrafts, will be fully showcased at the “Asia-Pacific Cultural Day.” Malaysian craftsmanship enjoys international acclaim; local artisans excel at creating exquisite everyday items using weaving techniques. Influenced by Islam, their designs often draw inspiration from nature, including flowers, trees, and animals. Whether it’s hand fans, rattan trays, or food covers, each is a clever and skillful piece of life art, and the aesthetics of craftsmanship are thoroughly integrated into daily living. Many traditional Malay musical instruments are also made from natural materials or animal hides, such as the Malay drum, cowhide drum, and bamboo rain chime — all exceptional and distinctive Malaysian handicrafts.

Mid-Autumn wafts with coconut scent Malaysian cuisine whets your appetite

Malaysia is a melting pot of multiple cultures, and its cuisine reflects the fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian heritages. Each ethnic group retains the flavors of its homeland, which, through mutual exchange, gradually evolved into the wide variety of Malay snacks we see today. But among these snacks and desserts, one common thread is the unmistakable rich coconut flavor unique to Malaysia. Among the special treats are glutinous rice cakes with shredded coconut, pandan-flavored glutinous rice cakes, coconut shrimp buns, curry puffs, Malay coconut glutinous rice balls, and banana pancakes with shredded coconut — a rare collection of authentic Malaysian delicacies gathered together for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Enjoy these exotic flavors without leaving the country, paired with traditional Malaysian tea and white coffee. What are you waiting for?Come to Huashan 1914 Creative Park on September 6 and 7 for a coconut-scented Mid-Autumn celebration during the holiday.

Travel the world through food — fiery chefs serve up signature flavors

The 【2014 Malaysia International Gourmet Festival】 has been creating a borderless feast of global cuisines for 14 consecutive years, inviting over 30 chefs from around the world to deliver the most authentic and extraordinary taste experiences. Since its inception in 2001, the Malaysia International Gourmet Festival has become a benchmark in the local culinary scene, with new surprises awaiting food lovers each year. This year’s theme, “Red Hot Chefs,” features top chefs from various countries presenting authentic Sri Lankan and Malaysian dishes, innovative Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine, modern Thai food, Japanese cuisine, Italian fare, and French cooking — all showcasing the boundless richness of borderless gastronomy. The Malaysia International Gourmet Festival continues to innovate year after year, leading foodies into a wonderland of endless surprises and finger-licking delights.