For decades, nasi lemak has proudly been known as the national dish of Malaysia, one that has attracted thousands of tourists worldwide to have a taste.
As such, it’s no wonder that Malaysians were up in arms after a Facebook page not only attributed the dish to another country, but also gave it an entirely new name.
Nasi lemak = Nanyang Coconut Rice?
In a photo posted by ASIAN Story & Heritage, it featured a plate of nasi lemak, along with the description written as “Nanyang Coconut Rice” underneath it.
In the caption, it wrote that the dish uses rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, and that “Nanyang” (南洋) refers to the Southern Seas and historically, Southeast Asia.
The page also wrote that it was part of Singapore’s culinary scene, where it stated:
“Singapore’s culinary scene is a true reflection of its cultural diversity, blending Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences into a vibrant food landscape.
“From hawker centers serving Hainanese chicken rice, katong laksa, roti prata, and satay to fine dining restaurants offering fusion cuisine, every community has left its mark on the national palate.”
‘Not the same!’
Unsurprisingly, Malaysians were upset by the attempt to erase the fact that nasi lemak was very much a Malaysian dish and made their displeasure known in the comments.
‘Nanyang Coconut Rice your grandfather’s head. It’s nasi lemak, through and through.’
‘Nasi lemak, just nasi lemak. It’s from Malaysia.’
Meanwhile, some accused Singapore of “stealing” food from other countries and changing its names so that it could be incorporated into its food culture.
What do you think of ‘Nanyang Coconut Rice’? Share with us in the comments!
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