Bridging cultures: The shared values of Malaysian and Turkish hospitality

WHILE the taste of food of Malaysia and Turkiye may differ, both countries share a deep appreciation for warm hospitality that transcends cultural differences.

This commonality is evident in the food culture of both countries, where kindness and generosity are ingrained in the way people host guests.

Turkish Café Istanbul restaurant chef and owner Deniz Alkoç said the flavours in Malaysian cuisine differ significantly from Turkish food, but the hospitality in both countries is remarkably similar.

Alkoç, who has many Malaysian friends shared that whenever they visit each other's homes, politeness and kindness are always a given.

"This hospitality is rooted in the culture of Malaysia. Whenever you visit a village or a home, if you mention you're hungry, food is immediately offered.

"Turkiye also shares this culture, especially in rural areas, where hospitality is just as warm.

"However, the food taste is different," he said when met at the restaurant in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, recently.

He pointed out that in Turkiye, rice is typically eaten only for lunch or dinner, while in Malaysia, it is often consumed at breakfast.

He shared that when he first arrived in Malaysia 11 years ago, it was a huge adjustment for him, but over time, he got used to it.

He said food is universal, where everyone needs to eat, but sometimes Malaysians crave for something different.

For example, during celebrations like Chinese New Year or Deepavali, he said many Chinese and Indian Malaysians prefer to try something other than their traditional dishes.

Alkoç said he experienced something similar. After eating rendang during Hari Raya, he tends to avoid it for a while, as people often seek variety in their meals.

However, he expressed that Malaysia has become a place he truly appreciates, particularly since his wife is Japanese and they both enjoy the calm and politeness of the Malaysian people.

He compared the cultures, explaining that while Turkish culture is much faster-paced, with everything needing to be done quickly, Malaysia's relaxed pace has its own unique advantages.

"We are happy here. My kids have almost become like Malaysians, they eat everything spicy.

"Honestly, Malaysia is a wonderful country. We love it here so much.

"Typically, many Malaysians dream of visiting Turkiye or Japan and Alhamdulillah, for us this place feels like home," he added.

Alkoç shared that he enjoys almost all Malaysian food, but his top favourite is nasi lemak with chicken. He said he also loves durian, a fruit that his entire family has come to love.

For Malaysians interested in trying Turkish cuisine, he suggested the classic kebab.

While many Malaysians have visited Turkiye, the number of Turkish visitors to Malaysia continues to grow, though gradually.

One of the main challenges for Turkish visitors is adapting to the spicier Malaysian cuisine.

However, over time, more Turkish people are adjusting to the local flavours.

Alkoç also noted that when Malaysians first visited Turkiye years ago, they struggled with the local breakfast, which typically consists of bread, cheese, olives and vegetables instead of rice.

He said now, however, Turkish breakfasts have become a favourite for many Malaysians.

According to Alkoç, in Turkiye, the flavours are influenced by the four seasons, whereas Malaysia’s year-round climate results in distinct flavour profiles, even when following the same recipe.

This contrast in taste and ingredients poses a challenge for Turkish chefs working with Malaysian ingredients.

Both cuisines use spices, but the flavour profiles are significantly different.

Alkoç came to Malaysia in May 2014 and opened Turkish Café Istanbul in October that year.

The restaurant is located at LG-08 Glo Damansara, 699, Jalan Damansara, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.