Food is a big part of Malaysian culture – and for many, the most notable category of Malaysian food is breakfast. From roti canai to nasi lemak, many locals start their day with a hearty meal packed with familiar Malaysian flavours.
Recently, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially recognised Malaysian breakfast culture as an intangible cultural heritage. The Malaysian Ministry Of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) announced that our local breakfast culture has been listed under the global agency’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The announcement was made on 5th December 2024 (Thursday) during the 19th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paraguay. According to MOTAC, the inclusion came after the evaluation body concluded that Malaysia’s breakfast culture met all the criteria outlined by UNESCO. The ministry submitted the nomination through the National Heritage Department in March 2023.
MOTAC spoke about the breakfast culture in the country, saying it reflects the nation’s diversity, harmony, inclusivity and acceptance of its multi-ethnic society. It also showcases Malaysia’s strength as a multiracial nation. The statement added that the recognition will help inspire more efforts in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage through collaborative initiatives from various quarters.
Malaysia’s breakfast culture is the country’s first recognition in the UNESCO list related to food and gastronomy. The day before, the traditional garment kebaya was also officially added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Malaysia’s prior recognition includes Mak Yong Theatre (recognised in 2005), Dondang Sayang (recognised in 2018), songket (recognised in 2021) and pantun (joint recognition with Indonesia in 2020).
So, the next time you eat nasi lemak and roti canai in the morning, be proud because you’re helping preserve and conserve one of Malaysia’s important cultural heritage. What other local cultures do you think should be recognised?
Here’s a video celebrating Malaysia’s breakfast culture recognition:
Sources: Facebook, BERNAMA, Free Malaysia Today, Twitter
