KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s breakfast culture has been inscribed on Unesco’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry said the recognition for "Breakfast Culture in Malaysia: Dining Experience in a Multi-Ethnic Society" was announced during the 19th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, currently being held in Paraguay until Saturday (Dec 7).
In a statement on Thursday (Dec 5), the ministry said the evaluating body concluded that Malaysia’s breakfast culture met all the criteria outlined in Unesco's 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
"The breakfast culture in Malaysia reflects the nation’s diversity, harmony, inclusivity and acceptance among its multi-ethnic society.
"It is an intangible cultural heritage element aligned with Unesco's criteria, thus fostering social connections and showcasing Malaysia’s strength as a multiracial nation.
"This recognition is expected to inspire greater efforts in safeguarding intangible heritage through collaborative initiatives of various quarters including the government, associations and local communities, besides opening up avenues for broader cooperation across various fields,” the statement read.
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The ministry, through the National Heritage Department, submitted the nomination to Unesco on March 30 last year, the first related to food and gastronomy.
The ministry said the recognition underscores its commitment to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, in line with Core 3 of the National Cultural Policy, which emphasises cultural preservation and conservation.
It credited the achievement to the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including the department, the Malaysian National Commission for Unesco, Malaysia’s Permanent Delegation to Unesco, and the Foreign Ministry.
"This recognition enhances Malaysia’s global credibility as a deserving candidate for a seat on Unesco's Executive Board for the 2025-2029 term,” it added.
Malaysia’s prior recognition under the 2003 Convention for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage includes Mak Yong theatre in 2005, Dondang Sayang (2018), Silat (2019), Ong Chun/Wangchuan/Wangkang ceremony (joint nomination with China, 2020), Pantun (joint nomination with Indonesia, 2020), Songket (2021) and Mek Mulung (2023).
On Wednesday (Dec 4), the ministry announced that "kebaya" had also been described on the list, a shared achievement of the country with Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. – Bernama
