30/08/2025

LYFE SATURDAY | AUG 30, 2025

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Malaysian Paper

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Tasty flavours of patriotism

Malaysians across backgrounds. “I feel proud when popular brands highlight flavours such as kuih talam or durian. It also introduces our unique identity to tourists, showing them what makes Malaysia special,” she said. Civil servant R Kumar, 33, shares a similar sentiment, believing that patriotism is not confined to words or flags – it can also be expressed through food. “When we are abroad for a long time, what we miss most are dishes such as nasi lemak and roti canai . That shows how powerful food is in connecting us to our roots and culture,” he said. Local brands are also seizing the opportunity to highlight Malaysian favourites. Loob Holding founder and CEO Bryan Loo said Tealive has launched a durian-inspired beverage series, celebrating the king of fruits, while also appealing to evolving consumer tastes. For many Malaysians, the durian is more than just a fruit – it is a unifying symbol that sparks pride at home and abroad. “Durian is one of the most well-loved icons of Malaysia, recognised locally and internationally. “In conjunction with National Day, we wanted to showcase that pride through a unique drink that truly reflects Malaysia’s identity,” said Loo. Adding to the festivities, Coolblog Malaysia announced a spirited National Day giveaway. Its chairman Tunku Ali Redhauddin said the brand will distribute 10,000 free cups of Teh Tarik Ais to customers who shout “I Love Malaysia” at selected outlets nationwide on Aug 31. “As a proud Malaysian brand, we are excited to invite the community to come together and celebrate love for the country through this special initiative,” he said in a statement. – Bernama

E ACH August, the spirit of patriotism is not only seen in the Jalur Gemilang fluttering proudly or heard in the familiar strains of patriotic songs, but it is also savoured through uniquely Malaysian flavours making their way onto special menus across the country. Local food and beverage (F&B) brands are embracing the season by reimagining classic tastes with a modern twist, introducing limited-edition desserts, drinks and main courses inspired by Malaysia’s culinary heritage. Among the standout creations this year are kuih talam-flavoured ice cream, durian-infused coffee and milk tea, and inventive East-meets-West fusions such as chicken rendang burgers, seafood masak lemak pasta, and nasi lemak fish and chips. To mark the twin celebrations of National Day on Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16, many outlets are also rolling out exclusive nationwide promotions and limited-time discounts. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with Malaysians welcoming these creative takes as a fresh way to honour tradition. For many, the blending of nostalgic flavours with modern dining reflects the country’s unity and diversity. For university student Farah Syazwani Mohamad, 23, the wave of limited-edition menus launched each August is more than just a marketing gimmick. To her, it reflects how local F&B entrepreneurs channel their patriotism through dishes that unite o Citizens welcome special menu items ahead of national celebrations

Many F&B outlets are incorporating durian into their special celebratory menus. – 123RFPIC

Merdeka and Malaysia Day promotions are a common sight. – BERNAMAPIC

Malaysia Book of Records recognises firm for most sold briyani dishes

SYED Food Industry Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the Syed Group of Companies, has been awarded the Malaysia Book of Records title for the “Most Briyani Dishes Sold in a Year”. In a statement, the group announced that the accolade was achieved by supplying 1.46 million briyani meals in a single year. The statement said this accomplishment was driven by the company’s provision of briyani to major airlines, as well as its innovative production of ready-to-eat briyani in multiple formats, including frozen, chilled, retort and cook-serve versions, bringing authentic flavours to domestic and international markets. “In addition to this record-breaking feat, it is noteworthy that Syed Group stands as the largest consumer of basmati rice in Malaysia, an essential ingredient in crafting its iconic briyani . “This distinction further underscores the group’s deep commitment to quality, authenticity and consistency in delivering the nation’s most beloved dish to millions of consumers,” read the statement. Meanwhile, group chairman Datuk Syed Jamarulkhan said the recognition reflects not only the company’s dedication to culinary excellence, but also the trust and loyalty of its clients and partners. “At Syed Food Industry, every briyani dish

represents decades of tradition, passion and innovation, and this award inspires us to continue setting new benchmarks in the food industry,” he said. – Bernama

Syed Jamarulkhan. – PIC FROM SYED FOOD INDUSTRY SDN BHD

Briyani. – 123RFPIC