Opening doors to new opportunities

Priceless spice: Poh handing a gift to Lim (second from left) after the launch of the nutmeg beverage for export at Baba House in Melaka.

MELAKA: The humble nutmeg is set to play a role in the 50th anniversary of Malaysia and China diplomatic ties with one local entrepreneur eyeing to introduce the first locally made nutmeg liqueur to the Middle Kingdom.

The “Miriztika” is set to enter the foreign market after an event to introduce the alcoholic drink to the world was held at the Baba House in Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock here on Saturday.

Datuk Lim Ban Hong, who is special adviser on investment and China affairs to the Melaka Chief Minister, said the launch holds particular significance as it celebrates the region’s potential in introducing nutmeg products to global markets apart from revitalising the local economy by creating new avenues for tourism and commerce.

“The aroma of nutmeg has long been intertwined with our heritage and this event demonstrates Malaysia’s ability to captivate international markets and drive economic growth through gastronomic diplomacy.

“The introduction of Malaysia’s first nutmeg beverage represents not only a significant milestone in our culinary landscape but also a promising venture for our local economy.

“We are opening doors to new economic opportunities, both locally and globally, by showcasing the distinctive flavour and the benefits of Malaysian nutmeg to the world,” he said.

Lim, who is also the Klebang assemblyman, added that the event was memorable as Melaka was set to host the golden jubilee of Malaysia and China’s diplomatic relations.

Representatives from Shanghai and Foshan, China, as well as Singapore and Hong Kong were also present at the launch.

Entrepreneur Owen Poh, who is instrumental in producing the pioneer nutmeg liqueur, said the drink was produced locally using his formula.

He said the production started a few years ago and he branded the drink Miriztika after the scientific name of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt).

Poh said the nutmeg has an amazing history as it was first introduced to this part of the world by Admiral Cheng Ho during his epic journey through the Maritime Silk Road.

He said nutmeg later became a prized spice in medieval European cuisine for its medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Poh noted that the Portuguese fought wars to control the monopoly of the nutmeg trade and the Dutch later constructed a comprehensive plantation system to cultivate it.