SINGAPORE: Malaysian breakfast delights stole the limelight at the inaugural Malaysia Travel Escapade 2024, at the Suntec City Mall, from April 12 to 14.

The aroma of nasi lemak and roti canai, as well as the chicken bak kut teh, wafted through the air – attracting visitors who came for a taste of Malaysia’s culinary heritage to the three-day travel fair.

Tourism Malaysia Singapore deputy director Mohana Murni Shanmugam said the Malaysian breakfast culture is chosen as the highlight of this travel fair, in line with the government’s submission to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list

“We are thrilled to highlight Malaysian breakfast culture and give visitors a taste of authentic Malaysia’s culinary delights.

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“We believe the Malaysian breakfast culture is unique and becoming part and parcel of the country’s heritage, deserving recognition and promotion as we gear up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026,“ she told Bernama, here, Saturday.

Visitors were also treated to a mesmerising display of live teh tarik demonstrations by ‘Teh Tarik King’ Fakir Mohd Jamal Mohd from Kedah, showcasing the artistry behind Malaysia’s iconic pulled tea.

Mohana Murni said this year Malaysia aims to welcome 27.3 million international tourists with 10 million arrivals from Singapore, generating RM102.7 billion in tourism receipts.

She said last year, Singapore ranked as the top source of tourist-generating markets, contributing significantly to 8.3 million arrivals.

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The forthcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 has set a target of 35.6 million foreign tourist arrivals, with a target receipt of RM147.1 billion, she added.

The Malaysia Travel Escapade 2024 also offered a glimpse into Malaysia’s vibrant culture with a showcase of traditional handicrafts and products including Sarawak’s black pepper, gula apong and coconut sugar, as well as rejuvenating spa services, courtesy of the Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA).

Spa Manja manager Roselyn said among the offer at the fair include a two-hour package worth S$48 for customers of the spa that is located in Johor Bahru.

“Our customers are 50-50 between locals and Singaporeans. Spa is one of the main attractions for Singaporeans when they visit Malaysia. This fair allows us to promote our products and the Malaysian spa experience to Singaporeans and help to increase tourism in Malaysia,” she said.

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