Nasi Lemak might be gaining a place on the international stage after it was nominated in the list of candidates for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage recognition this year.
Among other local elements listed as candidates for UNESCO World Heritage recognition include the cave system of Niah National Park in Sarawak as well as Malaysia’s Kebaya.
According to a report by Berita Harian, the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing described 2024 as a significant year for the country and will be considered a ‘Heritage Year’.
“Among them (the listed heritages) is the Archaeological Heritage of Niah National Cave Complex in Sarawak named as a candidate worthy of World Heritage recognition,”
“For Kebaya Malaysia, which is applied together with neighbouring countries Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, is also nominated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage candidate, representing human culture,” he said.
And what of Malaysia’s ultimate favourite dish?
“The nomination of Malaysian Breakfast Culture, including Nasi Lemak, is also an effort by the Ministry to ensure that the people’s traditional dishes are recognised as Malaysian National Heritage Food and will not be claimed by other countries,” he added.
Malaysia’s various cultural elements truly are wonders in their own right and deserve worldwide recognition.
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