Latest news with #Hakka
The Star
13-07-2025
- The Star
Locally sauced
PASSIONATE and adventurous, Chef James Won once dove into a river in a remote village in Sarawak for the 'best ingredients'. It was in the wee hours, when the waters were calm. Won was foraging for mussels and wanted to have them fresh for his next meal. Suddenly, splashes disturbed the calm river. Much to his surprise, several villagers stood on the riverside behind him, throwing rocks into the water a few metres away. 'They told me they were throwing rocks to deter some crocodiles away. I guess I would wade into the dangers of the unknown for food,' Won quipped to a group of reporters recently. Won's experience with the locals reflects the warmth and generosity that define Sarawakians – much like the food they serve, they're rich in flavour and full of heart. Hailing from a small Hakka new village in Jinjang, Selangor, Won has long championed food as a powerful force that brings people together. In fact, he is now leading the 'Serumpun Sarawak' campaign, which aims to highlight Sarawak's gastronomical delights to the world. Won says food can be a vessel of dignity. — Agencies 'We want to ensure that Sarawak's culinary traditions, from foraged jungle greens and smoked river fish, to the ceremonial use of bamboo and stone, are not just remembered, but respected, revitalised and reimagined. 'We believe that food can be a vessel of dignity. That in every indigenous technique, every heirloom ingredient, every community gathering, lies an opportunity to uplift, educate and empower.' The effort is also part of the state's broader push for sustainable tourism, which among others entails conserving resources, respecting local cultures and creating jobs for local residents. Food for thought Sarawak's tourism campaign to highlight its culinary wonders is a declaration of the region's powerful affirmation that indigenous heritage, culinary identity and creative spirit deserve their rightful place on the world stage. 'And not as novelties, but as benchmarks of excellence,' says Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who also heads the region's youth, sports and entrepreneur development portfolio. He says Serumpun Sarawak's vision will be showcased in Osaka, Japan from Aug 5 to 8, as part of the global celebration surrounding World Expo 2025. 'There, amidst innovation from across the planet, the world will get a taste of not just Sarawak's cuisine, but also its identity. Its design. Its way of life.' Traditional Sarawak snack tumpik. — Bernama Abdul Karim says Serumpun Sarawak also reflects the region's deepening commitment to sustainable tourism, which strives to balance between the needs of tourists and local communities. 'These are not just events on a calendar. They are a journey. A journey that shows Sarawak's culinary and cultural expressions are not meant to be preserved behind glass – they are living, breathing and ready to shape the global narrative. 'But journeys are never built in isolation. 'Serumpun Sarawak' is a triumph of collaboration. It brings together chefs, farmers, artisans, storytellers, designers and communities. It is a beautiful reminder that when Sarawakians come together – when we walk as one – we create something powerful, enduring and extraordinary.' Coffee and nuts A vivid example of how food and sustainability converge in Sarawak is the rearing of the empurau fish – a prized catch that also boosts local livelihoods. Gastronomical delight: The empurau fish is a prized catch in Sarawak. — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/THE STAR Won says the empurau's distinctive taste comes from its diet of buah engkabang, or illipe nuts. These nuts are key to its famously fatty, fragrant flavour. 'This is why the fish costs so much (it is reported that it can fetch up to more than RM1,500 per kilo).' However, engkabang trees fruit unpredictably. 'Since the empurau has become more and more popular, more farmers and horticulturists have taken up engkabang husbandry (to produce the nuts) to feed the empurau. These are among the many interesting things taking place in Sarawak.' In the highlands, coffee cultivation is also getting attention. Raven Kwok, co-founder of Earthlings Coffee Workshop, says Malaysia is one of the few countries in the world cultivating liberica, a rare coffee bean prized for its smoky, bold and sometimes fruity flavour. 'The country is often overshadowed by other coffee producers including Indonesia. But liberica can put us back on the map.' Kwok says liberica coffee bean can put Malaysia on the map. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star —Earthlings Coffee Workshop He points to promising efforts in Long Banga in Marudi district – deep in the heart of Borneo – where locals are turning to liberica as a high-value crop. 'It's difficult for them to sell fresh produce in a (competitive) market. So growing coffee makes sense, since it's a non-threshold commodity (it doesn't spoil quickly or require refrigeration),' says Kwok. Coffee cultivation is getting attention in the Sarawak highlands. —Earthlings Coffee Workshop Balancing act Still, with Sarawak's tourism efforts gaining traction, questions arise about how to avoid the pitfalls of over-tourism. Abdul Karim admits this is a growing concern, citing the experiences of Venice and Bali – where unchecked tourism caused rental and food prices to soar, hurting locals. 'We will work to prevent (the tourism in Sarawak) from reaching to such a state. That is the reason why, when we carry out promotions, we are careful in terms of (targeting) the kind of visitors we are inviting to the country.' He says tourist education and regulation are crucial, especially in sensitive natural areas. 'We want tourists who can appreciate the beauty of Sarawak's nature. Not the ones who want to spoil our nature, culture and heritage.' Abdul Karim: 'We want tourists who can appreciate the beauty of Sarawak's nature. Not the ones who want to spoil our nature, culture and heritage.' — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE / The Star Asked whether increased global demand for Sarawakian cuisine could lead to a rise in ingredient prices, he remains confident. 'Presently, we are not worried. Even if it affects (the prices), we will know how to make the necessary adjustments. This is so that the locals will not feel the pinch.' On Serumpun Sarawak's upcoming showcase in Osaka, the Sarawak Tourism Board says the event will be hosted at Seaside Studio Caso and introduce Japanese and international audiences to the depth and diversity of Sarawak's indigenous cuisines, ingredients and creative expressions. 'Through curated dining experiences, visual storytelling and cultural showcases, Osaka will offer a window into Sarawak's soul – a vibrant confluence of land, people and culinary heritage.' The international debut will be followed by a community-based activation at Unesco world heritage site Mulu National Park. Serumpun Sarawak will be held at the Unesco world heritage-listed Mulu National Park in October. —EDDIE CHUA/The Star 'In October 2025, the journey will host a site-specific experience within the park itself, blending indigenous culinary traditions, ecological appreciation and cultural storytelling in one of the world's most awe-inspiring environments. 'The Mulu activation reflects Serumpun Sarawak's commitment to ensuring that global recognition is always grounded in respect for local communities, biodiversity, and indigenous knowledge systems.'
Time of India
10-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Mom! I don't want cabbage! Throw it!
We often visit the local market where we regularly buy vegetables. One day, however, to my surprise, the stalls were almost empty. Mr Garud, the vegetable vendor I knew well, had always provided a fresh supply. Curious about the shortage, we wandered further and discovered a weekly vegetable market. The service road was lined with vendors who brought their produce directly from local farmers. They called out to potential buyers with enticing pitches, advertising their goods as "Gavran, organic, and indigenous." One shop on the right featured a variety of mushrooms, red and yellow peppers, baby corn, broccoli, celery, and many other exotic vegetables. Globalisation has brought the world and its cultures closer together, particularly through cuisine. This has strengthened connections among different cultures. Nowadays, our children often prefer exotic foods over traditional local Indian dishes. For instance, while Poli Bhaji is considered a standard meal in Maharashtra, a Frankie features the same vegetables wrapped in a chapatti roll, topped with salads and cheese. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo We now see finger millet, pearl millet, and various grains being used in Hakka noodles, and although spaghetti is Italian, its seasoning often has Indian influences. The market was bustling with adults, who crowded around a stall selling leafy vegetables, including beetroots with their long reddish-green leaves, and radishes tied in threes with tufts of leaves. An energetic young vendor clad in blue gloves managed the large crowd, ensuring everyone's needs were met. Nearby, a corn shop offered its produce, while various vegetable vendors lined the market. The vendor on the extreme right had fresh cabbage with a tuft of hanging leaves, attracting many buyers. We were paying attention to the vendor as she elevated her pitch when we heard a young boy speaking to his mother. 'Why are you taking this cabbage? Will you make a roll out of it?' His mother replied dryly, 'I will be making just Poli Bhaji.' The boy looked at the cabbage in disgust and exclaimed, 'Drop it there, we don't want cabbage!' Despite his mother's smile as she clung onto the cabbage, the boy sulked and continued to ask her not to buy it. She tried to convince him of the benefits of cabbage, but nothing seemed to work. Some of us turned to support the lady, asking, 'Will you be making spring rolls from this cabbage, or ravioli?' The boy smiled and replied, 'We do not add cabbage to our noodles or spring rolls…' With a whole lot of YouTube recipes, he knew everything. It reminded me of the time I went to a restaurant with my grandniece, who loves noodles for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. She has a knack for recognising her favourite brand. When the waiter brought her a bowl of noodles, she immediately tasted the first spoonful and looked up, saying, 'This isn't Magi noodles.' The waiter smiled and replied, 'This is Hakka noodles, authentic noodles.' Some children view noodles with vegetables as a tragedy, believing that plain noodles are the best option. A little boy's defiance towards cabbage drew a crowd of ladies around him and his mother. Some of them scolded him in Marathi, saying, "Food doesn't need to be tasty; it needs to be nutritious." The boy responded, "If that's the case, then you should eat it." We were generally concerned about the discussion until the boy suddenly spotted his teacher in the market. He jumped for joy and greeted her enthusiastically. Meanwhile, his mother held up the cabbage and looked at him with pleading eyes. The teacher, an energetic lady, quickly realised the situation. She patted the boy on the back and said, "Our children are the best; they know what to eat. Santosh will eat the cabbage, but don't forget to make a puri bhaji for him. " Both the mother and Santosh smiled, feeling thrilled, the boy kept gazing at his teacher, while the mother began paying for the cabbage. Authored by: Dr. Jyothi Ramesh Pai If you too have a soul-touching story to share, then send it to us at: soulcurry@ Samantha Ruth Prabhu Breaks Toxic 'Relationship' With Her Phone: Shares How She Detoxified
HKFP
10-07-2025
- General
- HKFP
Feng shui woodlands have protected Hong Kong; it's our turn to care for these long-neglected, forgotten forests
By Kit Lee and Michael Boyle Amidst the villages and valleys of Hong Kong, tiny pockets of ancient forest lie scattered across the landscape. These forgotten forests absorb carbon from the air, give shelter to rare plants and animals, and provide locals with spaces to reconnect with nature and their cultural roots. However, neglected by policymakers, lacking legal protection, and vulnerable to degradation, many of these ancient forest patches teeter on the brink of survival. These are Hong Kong's feng shui woodlands, sacred groves rooted in centuries-old traditions of harmony and balance. For hundreds of years, these woodlands have protected our natural, cultural and spiritual history; now it is our turn to care for them. While much of Hong Kong is covered by young secondary forest, grown back over the past 60-70 years following World War II, feng shui woodlands represent the oldest patches of original remnant forest in the city. Many of them have stood in place for well over 300 years, with some known to be more than 600 years old. Traditionally situated behind Hakka villages, these woodlands have been gently and sustainably managed by villagers for centuries. They protect the community from typhoon winds, give respite from the summer heat, and provide clean water, fuel and food. Geomantic beliefs, taboos, and community norms related to village life have shielded these woodlands from industrialisation, war and urban expansion. It has historically fostered everlasting bonds between the woodlands and the people living alongside them – a unique relationship that has played a crucial role in shaping both the cultural and natural history of Hong Kong. Unlikely survivors While the rest of Hong Kong's natural forest habitats were gradually destroyed by humans, feng shui woodlands still stand as unlikely survivors. Protected by cultural tradition, they in turn shelter the most important pockets of biodiversity in the region. Despite their small size, feng shui woodlands absorb more atmospheric carbon per unit area than any other habitat in Hong Kong. They contain more than one-third of the total terrestrial biodiversity in Hong Kong and are the last remaining habitats for many rare and undescribed species of insects and plants. The cool environment created by the mature tree canopy means that the species living within feng shui woodlands are better protected from climate change than those residing in Hong Kong's younger forests or grasslands. The incredibly high biodiversity and stable conditions support and foster intricate interactions among all the living beings that call these forests their home, and it is these relationships that build a resilient ecosystem. Accordingly, as the government seeks to restore forests on Hong Kong's degraded hillsides, feng shui woodlands can provide a source of seeds and species to spread across the landscape once again. Beyond biodiversity, feng shui woodlands are also a crucial component of our cultural history and identity. Losing touch with these values not only robs us of our past but also restricts our ability to push towards a more prosperous future. The concept of 'ecological civilisation' is based on achieving a balance between economic development and environmental protection. The harmonious coexistence of humans and nature is, therefore, a societal goal, and one that feng shui woodlands exemplify by their very existence. Projects involving the conservation of traditional cultural villages at Lai Chi Wo, Mui Tsz Lam and Kop Tong, alongside increased interest from tourists and locals in restoring and visiting once-abandoned Hakka villages such as Kuk Po, show that there is a significant public interest in increasing exposure to traditional culture. Sadly, however, local knowledge of feng shui woodlands has sharply declined in Hong Kong. Questionnaires conducted in nine traditional villages adjacent to feng shui woodlands indicated that while most people expressed positive opinions of the health and cultural benefits of living next to woodlands, one-third of respondents claimed no knowledge of the existence of feng shui woodlands in their village, and two-thirds had never stepped foot in the forest. These irreplaceable habitats demand our attention and protection. We estimate that over 300 feng shui woodlands exist in Hong Kong, yet only 116 are included in the current government inventory. Alarmingly, 60 per cent of known feng shui woodlands in Hong Kong currently fall outside legally protected zones, such as country parks, special areas and green belts. They are also falling outside of public perception, with environmental and cultural education failing to foster a bond between people and nature. As a consequence, without specific policies in place to catalogue, assess, manage and educate, these neglected woodlands will disappear from the map and collective memory. The government is currently seeking public consultation on updating the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP), a wide-ranging document that defines environmental and conservation policy in Hong Kong until 2030. As ecologists, we are advocating for policy updates to improve the protection and rehabilitation of feng shui woodlands. These include conducting detailed and methodical surveying to establish and map clear boundaries for all feng shui woodlands in Hong Kong; establishing progressive, integrated policy that leverages contemporary attitudes to conserve both natural and cultural heritage; devising strategies and programmes aimed at restoring and conserving forest quality; and promoting their importance through outreach and education. Ultimately, we call for protected status encompassing all feng shui woodlands in Hong Kong. Mainland China and beyond As examples of precedent for enacting similar policies, Hong Kong can look to mainland China and beyond. Since 2011, teams of local villagers, ecologists, and the government have conducted surveys of feng shui woodlands in 57 villages across 17 districts in five Chinese provinces – Fujian, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Hunan, and Anhui – developing a database and management plan for future generations. Canal Nan, also known as Qunan, a community of the Zhuang ethnic group in Guangxi province, provides an example of the local benefits accrued from developing a policy to protect and manage feng shui woodlands. In 2014, recognising the conservation value of the white-headed langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus), the local government legally protected the feng shui woodland around Canal Nan as a nature reserve in collaboration with local villagers. With the establishment of the reserve, an education hub was created, welcoming schoolchildren, tourists, and scientists from across the country for nature experiences, research, and education activities. Since this initiative began, a stronger sense of culture and community has developed in the village, leading to the re-establishment of a range of traditional activities, including long-table banquets and traditional dances. Further afield, the Japanese concept of satoyama encapsulates a similar ideology to the stewardship of feng shui woodlands in traditional Chinese culture, as well as modern concepts of 'ecological civilisation.' Like feng shui woodlands, satoyama landscapes are characterised by the lasting harmonious interactions between humans and nature. Recognising the benefits and significance of satoyama for both humans and nature, the Japanese government established the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI) at COP10 in Nagoya. To date, the partnership has launched 325 projects worldwide aimed at creating societies that exist in harmony with nature. One of these projects is even in Hong Kong. The feng shui woodland at Lai Chi Wo is part of the IPSI but remains the only one among the 300-plus such woodlands in Hong Kong to be involved in any international conservation initiatives. As the public consultation period for the BSAP draws to a close, we call upon the Hong Kong government to adopt a more proactive approach to protecting our feng shui woodlands. The benefits of doing so extend far beyond species and environmental conservation, fostering links between modern and traditional cultures, educating the next generation, and ultimately improving the relationship between society and nature. We will be submitting our recommendations for the BSAP policy update and encourage readers with specialist knowledge and interests in aspects of Hong Kong's natural environment to do the same. Kit Lee is a PhD student studying insect-plant relationships in the Global Change and Tropical Conservation Lab at the University of Hong Kong, with a combined background in psychology and ecology. Michael Boyle is a research fellow in the Biodiversity and Environmental Change Lab at the University of Hong Kong, with a broad interest in all aspects of environmental change, ecology, and conservation. Type of Story: Opinion Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data.
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Daily Express
10-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Warisan defends use of Hakka in Assembly outburst
Published on: Thursday, July 10, 2025 Published on: Thu, Jul 10, 2025 By: Abbey Junior Text Size: A heated exchange between Phoong (left) and Calvin (right) erupted during the recent's State Assembly question-and-answer session. Kota Kinabalu: Elopura Assemblyman's brief use of Hakka during a heated exchange in the State Assembly did not contain any harmful or rude language and should not be seen as a problem, said Parti Warisan's Pekan Sandakan branch chief. Stanley Tan Vui Chung said the lawmaker, Calvin Chong, was simply expressing frustration over the delayed progress of the RM31bil Esteel Sabah project and that the use of dialects in the House was not uncommon given Sabah's multicultural context. 'In Sabah, many elected reps speak in localised Malay mixed with native dialects. What Calvin said in Hakka was not offensive or vulgar in any way,' Tan said in a statement, Tuesday. 'If it were truly inappropriate, the Speaker would have issued a warning or ordered him out. But instead, both parties were only asked to calm down,' he added. The confrontation took place on Monday (July 7) when Chong questioned why there was still no visible activity at the Esteel steel plant site in Sipitang, despite repeated announcements that it would be a major catalyst for Sabah's industrial growth. Chong also sought clarification on the project's Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) status, land tenure and the absence of Sabahan directors on the company's board — and questioned potential overlaps with mineral exploration companies. Phoong, however, defended the project's progress, citing signed lease agreements, a RM35 million deposit, a federal manufacturing licence and a secured gas supply from Petronas and Sabah Energy Corporation. He also said a jetty contract had been awarded to China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). However, tensions escalated when Phoong criticised Chong for going to the media and lodging a police report instead of formally raising the matter in the House. Phoong had also lodged a police report against Chong. Tan clarified that Chong had, in fact, prepared documents to speak on the matter in the Assembly, but was pre-emptively accused before getting the opportunity to do so. 'Calvin was speaking up on behalf of the people. That is his duty. Unfortunately, instead of being heard, he was accused of politicising the issue,' he said. Tan also pointed out that heavy machinery was only seen arriving at the project site about two weeks after Chong filed his police report, and that media coverage on the project's progress only surfaced in recent days. 'Why the delay? Why only move after being pressured? These are legitimate questions,' he said, adding that asking for transparency does not mean being anti-development. The Esteel project, first announced at RM19.6 billion, has since been revised to RM31 billion to include downstream facilities and a deepwater jetty. The Government maintains that construction is ongoing in phases. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
NDTV
09-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- NDTV
Best Chilli Fish In Kolkata: 7 Restaurants That Get It Perfect Every Time
Kolkata's love for Indo-Chinese food runs deep, and you will find it sizzling across the city, from humble street stalls to lavish buffet spreads. Born in the kitchens of Chinese immigrants and shaped by local tastebuds, this hybrid cuisine is now a proud fixture of Kolkata's culinary identity. Think crisp Hakka noodles tossed in soy and chilli, gravy-soaked chicken Manchurian, and of course, the ever-iconic chilli chicken. Each one is spicy, crunchy, aromatic and deeply addictive. Another crowd favourite that belongs in this hall of fame is the chilli fish. Whether dry or saucy, chilli fish is usually paired with fried rice or noodles and has been loved across generations. It is the kind of dish that turns a regular meal into a celebration and makes every late-night craving worth the bite. And when it comes to finding the best chilli fish in Kolkata, the city does not disappoint. From iconic Park Street institutions to hidden gems in Chinatown, here is a curated list of places that serve chilli fish you will remember. Where To Eat Chilli Fish In Kolkata: 7 Must-Try Spots 1. Trincas, Park Street: This is where old-school glamour meets full-flavoured comfort. Trincas serves up perfectly crisp chilli fish smothered in sauce, paired with live music on most evenings. A solid pick if you want your Park Street food with a side of nostalgia. In a rush? Can't cook? 2. Golden Joy, Tangra: You cannot talk about Indo-Chinese food in Kolkata without mentioning Tangra. Golden Joy's chilli fish is wok-tossed to perfection, fiery with garlic and ideal for group dinners. It is one of the most loved Tangra Chinese restaurants for a reason. 3. Hatari, Rash Behari Avenue: This South Kolkata legend has nailed the chilli fish game. Hatari's version is pan-fried, crisp, smoky and generously spiced. It pairs beautifully with Hakka noodles, and if you are staying in, you might spot it on your go-to delivery app too. 4. Krystal Chopstick, Hindustan Park: Tucked away in Gariahat, this low-key favourite has been dishing out bold, flavour-heavy chilli fish for decades. The cosy space adds to the charm, and while you are there, the seafood platter deserves a mention too. 5. Tung Nam, Bara Bazar: Serving old-school Cantonese food in the middle of Bara Bazar, Tung Nam's dry chilli fish is smoky, spicy and affordable - just the kind of place food lovers should not miss. It is one of those spots where the food does all the talking. 6. Kim Ling, Tangra: Kim Ling brings together a retro bar vibe and timeless Indo-Chinese recipes. Their saucy chilli fish is best enjoyed with fried rice. For those not stepping out, it is conveniently available to order online - same flavours, different setting. 7. Hungry Tide, Hindustan Park: Hungry Tide's green chilli fish is bold, punchy and perfect for solo cravings. While the cosy outlet has its own charm, the menu travels well, especially for late-night bites, and is just a few taps away on most delivery apps. If you are planning a chilli fish trail across Kolkata, these seven spots will not disappoint. Whether you like it dry, doused in sauce, or flaming with green chillies, this list is your cheat sheet to the city's best. Try them all and let us know your favourite in the comments.
