The 10-day Malaysian Cultural and Food Festival kicked off last week and ends Sunday. During the event, the hotel's ground floor buffet service featured authentic fare from Malaysian chef Yap.

The Kuala Lumpur native who has one name like so many of his countrymen, previously worked in Sanya, Hainan Province, before returning to his native land. When the opportunity presented itself to demonstrate his country's cuisine to a Shanghainese audience, he was more than happy to comply.

On offer during the buffet are such dishes as nasi lemak, satay, marinated lamb and mee siam (Malaysian noodles), among others. The sambal belacan (chili paste with dried shrimp) was particularly authentic.

The event was launched last Friday in the hotel's car park. During his speech, Malaysian Consul General to Shanghai Jamal bin Hassan expressed his desire for as many people as possible to have the opportunity to visit his country next year on the 50th anniversary of its independence.

He said the main reasons to visit the Southeast Asian nation was its distinguished history, splendid environment and mixture of modern architecture and traditional buildings, among others.

The cuisine was also said to be a draw, with the various offerings of the country's different regions providing visitors with a unique experience.

The cultural element of the fair was also presented to the public in the form of the Malaysian National Song and Dance Troupe. The troupe performed traditional and modern dances for the assembled guests.

The buffet costs 218 yuan (US$27.25) and all diners are entered in a lucky draw for the chance to win a pair of return tickets to the country on Malaysian Airlines.

Address: 1200 Caoxi Road N.
Tel: 021-6439-1000 ext 3010