PHL's Christmas table setting a favorite in Malaysian exhibition

Philippine artistry on table setting was highlighted during the Table Setting Exhibition at the National Visual Arts Gallery in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia last Feb. 21 to 22.

 

The Philippine Embassy's table setting display had a Christmas theme and became one of the audience's favorites, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

 

It added the Philippine entry was arranged by Embassy Cultural Attaché Helen Grace Cuisia and Protocol Officer Mendel Rivera and Filipino Community member Katrina Karim.

 

"Karim's floral designs made the Philippine display one of the audience favorites," it said.  

The DFA said the Philippine display showed Christmas as a symbol of close-knit family ties among Filipinos with the observance of Noche Buena, the Christmas Eve feast.

 

It noted that during Noche Buena, the best china and silverware are laid out as the family celebrates traditional Filipino cuisine with dishes such as morcon, embotido, relyenong bangus and lechon.

 

Hosting the event was the Ladies' Association of the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (PERWAKAN), headed by Datin Sri Siti Rubiah Datuk Abdul Samad, wife of Foreign Minister Dato' Sri Anifah H.J. Aman.

 

"This two-day exhibition enables participating countries to show their culture and customs through table setting. From this exhibition, we can expand our knowledge to better understand and experience each other's customs and culture. It is also an occasion to enjoy and appreciate each other as we continue to build on our friendship and good relations," said Datin Sri Siti Rubiah Datuk Abdul Samad in her speech during the opening program.

 

Attending the opening ceremony were Philippine Second Secretary and Consul Gonaranao Musor, Labor Attaché Alicia Santos and Welfare Officer Gloria Taule.

 

Other countries represented at the event included Argentina, China, Italy, Japan, Korea, Maldives, Pakistan, Palestine and Malaysia.

 

The event was also attended by members of the International Women's Association of Kuala Lumpur and the Ex-Ambassador's Wife Group. –KG, GMA News