MYFEST 2026 Fosters Closer Malaysia-Poland Ties Through Culture

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- An encouraging response to the recent Malaysian Cultural Festival 2026 (MYFEST 2026) in Warsaw is proof that culture can serve as a common ground to bring the people of Malaysia and Poland closer together.

The festival was held on Sept 12 in conjunction with the National Day, the Malaysia Day, and the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. 

Themed ‘Taste, Culture, Tradition,’ the event aimed to introduce the various food, cultures, and traditions of Malaysia, according to organiser Malaysian Association in Poland (MYPOL).

The event was held in cooperation with the Embassy of Malaysia in Warsaw and Tourism Malaysia Frankfurt.

MYPOL president Muhammad Faiq Syahmi said the response to the event surpassed the organiser’s expectations with more than 200 people in attendance.

“Seeing the attendees from all walks of life coming together, enjoying Malaysian food, learning about our traditions, and wearing traditional Malaysian costumes was meaningful to us,” he said.

Also in attendance was Malaysian Ambassador to Poland Datuk Azri Mat Yacob and embassy officials.

Highlights of the event included a silat martial arts demonstration, batik painting, traditional games such as congkak, batu seremban, and ceper, and a quiz about Malaysia.

Meanwhile, MYPOL vice-president Mohd Najmi Kamarudin stressed that MYFEST which was founded early this year has a role to play in fostering ties among the Malaysian community in Poland, in addition to introducing the country’s cultures, traditions, and heritage through food, traditional games, and art and craft.

“Although we are far away from our homeland, the Malaysian spirit is alive in our hearts. Through MYFEST, we hope the attendees got to know the country and went home with some memories of what makes Malaysia so special,” he said.

-- BERNAMA