When it comes to food in Malaysia we are spoilt with choice. Living in a multicultural society, we have the opportunity to enjoy culinary delights of different ethnic groups. This is in addition to the various `Malaysianised’ dishes which are a result of the mingling pot of cultures we live in the society. A visit to a “nasi campur” stall in any town in Malaysia will provide you with dishes which are combinations of different traditional cuisine.

Food is our main sustenance. To stay healthy, however, it is important to have a balanced diet. It should consist of food from the five main food groups which are carbohydrate, protein, vitamin, fat and mineral. Eating a balanced meal promotes good health. Moderation in all things is a good principle to follow when it comes to food. Avoid eating too much of any food group despite its nutritional values.

The saying, “too much of any good thing is bad”, cannot be more true than when it comes to food. Although each food group is important, eating too much or too little of any one can have serious, adverse effects on our well-being. A good example is sugar. It is a vital part of our diet as it is an important source of energy. People involved in strenuous physical activities such as sports and manual labour have a higher requirement for glucose. If our intake is below our energy requirement, we would be too exhausted to carry out even the simplest tasks. On the other hand, excessive amounts of sugar can cause a drop in our insulin level, which can lead us to the dreaded disease, diabetes.

Besides being necessary for survival, food has always been referred to as the catalyst which draws people together. It helps to strengthen family relationships, friendships and business partnerships. The adage, “the way to a man”s heart is through his stomach’, may well indicate that food is responsible in even bringing two people together in love.

Malaysians often serve food and drinks to visitors as a sign of hospitality. Food helps to break the ice and build rapport with the person they are sharing a snack or meal with. On any occasion, food attracts people to congregate and talk while munching and chewing away. Business deals are often sealed over lunches. Feasts are held to celebrate marriages, birthdays, anniversaries, farewells, etc. Any excuse is used to get people together for good food.

Food is one of man’s basic needs that have to be fulfilled daily. It provides him with energy to work, the nutrition for a strong healthy body and immunity against sicknesses and ailments. The best part about food is that it can be presented in so many delightful ways, that often each mouthful can be savored. However, many of the health problems we are faced with are the result of excessive food intake. So we must remember to enjoy food in moderation.