All things Malaysian at gala do

BEIJING: It was a showcase of all things Malaysian at the golden jubilee gala dinner marking 50 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was there, at the very place where the ties between the two countries were inked half a century ago.

There were heartfelt congratulatory video messages from prominent Malaysians, including Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh and Datuk Jimmy Choo, adding a personal touch to the commemoration.

There was also Penang-born singing sensation Jeryl Lee Pei Ling who belted out several Mandarin, Malay and English songs, much to the delight of the guests.

The more than 700 people at the dinner consisted of government officials from Malaysia and China, business leaders, academics and guests, the star-studded night was a showcase of all things Malaysian.

The guests were treated to a sumptuous and specially-crafted menu that blended the essence of “Colourful Malaysia” with “A Taste of China” by Shangri-La Hotel’s area executive chef Stephen Teo from Sibu, Sarawak.

It was a delectable spread, which had Malaysian delights like rojak, satay, grilled otak-otak and the hotel’s renowned charcoal-roasted Peking duck.

The night began with the beats of the 24-season drum performed by the Malaysian 24-Season Festive Drum Team from the Beijing Institute of Technology, setting a lively tone as guests were escorted into the hall and later accompanied by the national anthems of Malaysia and China.

A spellbinding and vibrant dance performance by artists from Istana Budaya captivated the audience with their graceful moves, followed by a video presentation chronicling the historic moments between leaders of both nations over the years.

It also included events and people that have shaped the relationship between the two nations.

In his speech, Ahmad Zahid lauded the visionary wisdom of our forefathers, who, half a century ago, courageously extended a hand of friendship to China, laying the foundation for the enduring bond.

“May this grand gala not only commemorate the past but also pave the way for a future filled with even more reasons for celebration. Our spirit of togetherness will be stronger, strengthening our people’s ties,” he said.

Also present was China’s Foreign Affairs Department of Asian Affairs Ambassador Yu Hong.As the feast began, the main course had signature Malaysian dishes like nasi lemak, beef kapitan, asam pedas mackerel and lamb kurma, served in the traditional “muhibbah” style.

There were also Chinese delicacies with local favourites from various provinces such as stir-fried fresh lychee prawns featuring the renowned fruit from Xi’an.

Concluding the remarkable gastronomic experience was a fusion of desserts loved by both Chinese and Malaysians – durian cake and jackfruit baked egg tarts, accompanied by fresh seasonal fruits.