‘Culinary diplomacy’: Malaysian minister hosts bak kut teh lunch for Chee Hong Tat in Kuala Lumpur

PETALING JAYA - Malaysia’s Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming hosted Singapore’s National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat in Kuala Lumpur over a steaming bowl of bak kut teh on Nov 12.

Mr Nga’s ministry, which issued a statement on the meeting, added that the gesture exemplified the strong friendship and enduring ties between Malaysia and Singapore through what Mr Nga fondly described as “culinary diplomacy”.

“During the meeting on Wednesday, both ministers held in-depth discussions on a wide range of topics, including urban planning, urban renewal, waste management, affordable housing and sustainable development,” it said.

Mr Nga said that Malaysia and Singapore shared many common challenges in urban planning and housing policy – particularly in major metropolitan areas where land is limited and population density is high.

He emphasised that achieving a balance between environmental protection, development and liveability remained a shared priority for both nations.

“Both sides also explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration between professional bodies and local governments through civil service training and smart city development.”

Highlighting the cultural dimension of the visit, Mr Nga shared that bak kut teh was officially recognised in 2024 as part of Malaysia’s National Food Heritage under the National Heritage Act 2005.

He added that welcoming international guests with this national dish represents a form of heartfelt diplomacy.

This meeting marks the third engagement between Mr Nga and Mr Chee since May, reflecting the close cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore in the areas of housing and urban governance, and further strengthening the friendship between the two neighbouring nations. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK