Record turnout at Fiesta Malaysia in Melbourne

MELBOURNE: Over 23,000 people flocked to Fiesta Malaysia 2014 which showcased Malaysia's wonderful diversity, culture and cuisine.

Organised by the Malaysian Students Council of Australia (Masca), Victoria, and supported by the Malaysian Consulate-General here, it was held at the Federation Square in central Melbourne, where people of all ages streamed to the event throughout the day.

"This is fantastic and a great credit to our students who spent months planning the fiesta," Consul-General Datuk Dr Mohd Rameez Yaaya told Bernama.

"Last year, about 18,000 people came to our fiesta and this year's figure is overwhelming and encouraging for the students and Malaysia," he said.

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) chairman, Malaysian-born Chin Tan. said Fiesta Malaysia was one of the best organised and well-patronised social occasions in Victoria.

"This gives Malaysia a good profile," he said, adding that Mohd Rameez had played a big role in promoting Malaysia since arriving here more than two years ago.

Masca president Raymond Loh paid tribute to the hard work put in by his committee of about 20 members and 40 volunteers.

"We had a very good team," said the Monash University law student who is from Johor Baru.

Mohd Rameez, in launching the fiesta, said Malaysia's "rich multicultural diversity was in itself, a unique culture."

Malaysian High Commissioner Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad conveyed best wishes to the Masca organising committee over the success of the fiesta.

The fiesta featured 20 food stalls, several colourful cultural performances and a durian-eating competition.

Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines had booths which drew many inquiries.