TEHRAN- The Malaysian Embassy in Iran hosted “Baleh Makan” celebration in conjunction with Malaysia Day at the place of the embassy in Tehran in the evening of Saturday (September 28).

The event highlighted the rich traditions of Malaysian cuisine and performing arts, showcasing the deep connections between Malaysia and Iran.

The term “Baleh Makan” combines elements from both the Malay and Farsi languages. “Baleh” comes from the Malay word “Boleh”, meaning “can”, while in Farsi, “Bale” translates to “yes”. This shared linguistic link reflects the cultural parallels between the two nations. “Makan”, meaning “eating” in Malay, serves as the perfect theme for an evening centered around food and communal dining, symbolizing unity and friendship.

Malaysia Day, celebrated annually on 16 September, marks the formation of Malaysia in 1963. It is an occasion for Malaysians to honor the unity and diversity that define the nation. This year’s “Baleh Makan” in Tehran provided a unique opportunity for the Iranian community to experience Malaysia’s cultural heritage firsthand.

The event, hosted by Malaysian Ambassador to Iran Khairi bin Omar, was participated by diplomats from various embassies, business leaders, academics, and cultural figures, including Mr. Mohammadi, Director General of Asia and Oceania Affairs.

Addressing the ceremony, the Malaysian ambassador to Iran emphasized the significance of such events in promoting cultural diplomacy.

He said, “Malaysia and Iran share a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect and shared values. Events like ‘Baleh Makan’ allow us to celebrate our friendship and enhance cultural understanding through the universal languages of food and art. Tonight’s Wayang Kulit performance, with its Iranian narrative, symbolizes the rich interconnection between our two nations.”

The Saturday event featured a talented Malaysian chef presenting a selection of authentic Malaysian dishes. The chef offered attendees a culinary journey through Malaysia’s diverse gastronomic traditions, highlighting the country’s multi-ethnic flavours and cultural fusion. The centrepiece of the evening was a traditional Malaysian Kenduri (feast), featuring a selection of iconic Malaysian dishes:

Nasi Tomato (Tomato Rice): A festive rice dish often served during weddings and Hari Raya celebrations.

Ayam Masak Merah (Sweet & Sour Chicken): A Johor specialty combining sweet and spicy flavours.

Briyani Kambing (Lamb Briyani): A fragrant lamb dish with a special blend of spices, offering a mild yet distinct taste.

Ikan Masak Sos Lemon (Fried Fish with Lemon Sauce): A Nyonya Peranakan dish from Melaka, featuring caramelized trout in a tangy lemon sauce.

Sambal Udang (Hot & Spicy Shrimp): Shrimp cooked with spicy Malaysian chilies, balanced by tamarind and tomato paste.

Acar Timun (Vegetable Pickles): A refreshing cucumber pickle mixed with onion, green chilies, sugar, and vinegar.

Kuih Agar Agar Santan Gula Melaka: A coconut milk pudding sweetened with Gula Melaka, a traditional brown sugar from Melaka.

The culinary experience was complemented by a unique Wayang Kulit (shadow puppet) performance. In an extraordinary display of cultural exchange, the performance was conducted by a group of Iranian artists who studied this ancient art form in Malaysia. The artists performed the story of Siavash, a well-known Iranian folk tale, bringing a harmonious blend of Malaysian and Iranian traditions to the stage. The performance exemplified the strong cultural bonds between the two nations and highlighted the power of cross-cultural exchange.

This fusion of an Iranian narrative and Malaysian puppetry is a testament to the growing cultural ties between the two countries. Wayang Kulit, with its roots in Southeast Asian culture, is a revered form of traditional Malaysian theatre, celebrated for its intricate puppetry and vibrant storytelling.

Photo: Malaysian Ambassador to Iran Khairi bin Omar delivers speech in Saturday ceremony at the place of embassy