WASHINGTON: It was as if Merdeka celebrations had come early when the Malaysian embassy here was transformed into a medan selera on Tuesday.

Washingtonians lucky to be invited to the party were treated to a sumptuous array of curry laksa, nasi lemak and roti canai, with teh tarik and air batu campur flowing all night long.

"Malaysia: The Truly Asian Kitchen", hosted by the Charge d'Affaires, Ilango Karuppannan and his wife, Nirmala, began with the thunderous clap of the kompang by embassy staff and family members, followed by a performance by "Sutera Malaysia".

Guests were not disappointed as the grand feast was served by renowned Malaysian-owned restaurants -- Kopitiam Restaurant, Penang Bethesda Restaurant, Spices and Banana Leaves Restaurant.

It was not only the food that got the guests' attention. Tourism Malaysia officials came with brochures and postcards promoting Malaysia's tourist attractions.
Embassy staff and their spouses armed with warm smiles helped out at the various food stalls, making it a memorable event for Washingtonians in the summer.

This is the second time that the embassy has hosted such an event. -- Bernama