Introducing Malaysian Cuisine to the World: Stephen Teo’s Culinary Journey
A Bridge Between Cultures
Having spent 17 years abroad, Stephen Teo has not only stayed connected to his roots but has also found his own way to introduce Malaysia to the world.
As a chef at a five-star hotel in China’s bustling capital, Teo – who hails from Kuching, Sarawak – has seized the opportunity to use his culinary skills as a bridge to connect the two countries.
A Taste of Malaysia in Beijing
What delights him most is the warm reception for his signature dishes: laksa and nasi lemak. These, he said, have been well-received by the people of Beijing, including those who have never visited Malaysia.
"When the dishes I prepare receive praise, it makes me extremely proud. At the very least, this helps promote my country, which is rich in all types of delicious food," Teo said.
Culinary Heritage of Malaysia
"I have also introduced chicken rice, char kuey teow, rendang, chicken curry, Johor laksa, and satay – dishes that represent the culinary heritage of various races in Malaysia," he added.
Promoting Malaysia through Food
Teo doesn’t limit his prowess to the hotel where he works – he also seizes opportunities to introduce Malaysian food at official events. In fact, he was entrusted with preparing the dishes for a special event in Beijing last September to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties.
At this event, Teo and his fellow chefs curated a menu that reflected the strength of Malaysia and China’s bilateral relations by blending together the cuisines of both countries.
Halal and Authentic
As he fully understands the needs of Muslim communities and travellers, Teo also makes it a point to ensure only halal ingredients are used at his hotel.
"This not only caters to our Muslim guests from various countries but also aligns with the high standards of the global hospitality industry. As a Malaysian, I am accustomed to this practice," he said.
Conclusion
For Stephen Teo, his culinary journey is not just about serving food, but about building bridges between cultures and promoting his country’s rich culinary heritage. His dedication to using halal ingredients and his passion for sharing Malaysian cuisine with the world are a testament to his commitment to his roots and his country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How did you get interested in cooking?
A: I was always fascinated by the way food could bring people together, and I wanted to be a part of that.
Q: What inspired you to introduce Malaysian cuisine to the world?
A: I wanted to share the rich culinary heritage of my country with others and show that Malaysian food is more than just a plate of noodles or rice.
Q: What’s your favorite Malaysian dish?
A: I love trying different types of laksa, but I also enjoy a good plate of char kuey teow.
Q: How do you balance your Malaysian identity with your experiences abroad?
A: I believe that my cultural background has given me a unique perspective, and I’m proud to share that with others.