Aside from Iranians, the 3,000-year-old Nowruz is also celebrated by over 300 million people, including communities in Afghanistan, Albania, Turkey and Mongolia.

Its name means “new day” in Farsi and it marks the arrival of spring, on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox.

Malaysia happens to have a small Iranian community, who unsurprisingly welcomed the new year with full gusto, even though far from home.

To foster ties between Iran and Malaysia, the Iranian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur organised a celebration on March 29 in the embassy’s Cultural Centre.

Focusing on culture exchanges and food diplomacy, it was only right for the embassy to invite Malaysia’s culinary idol, Redzuawan Ismail, popularly known as Chef Wan.

The famous chef, always curious to sample new flavours, was invited to try his hand at grilling Persian lamb kebab, a task often reserved for the most experienced of chefs.

A large feast featuring Iranian delights was also part of the celebration, with appetisers, main courses and desserts that cannot be found elsewhere in Malaysia.

Savoury stews, barbequed chicken and lamb kebabs, rice dishes and vegetarian fare were among the many delicious dishes available for guests to sample and enjoy.

Aside from food, guests were also provided the opportunity to learn more about Nowruz traditions, with the showcasing of the Haft-Seen arrangement.

A must-have during any Nowruz celebration, the traditional arrangement consists of a special table spread called a “sofreh” with seven everyday items, all of which begin with the letter “s”.

While guests dined, video clips showcasing popular tourist destinations and historical sites in Iran were played.

Given how Iran can trace its roots back to the Persian Empire of ancient times, it goes without saying that the country has a long and storied history.

An art exhibition was also organised on the upper floor of the Cultural Centre, featuring Persian handicrafts, artwork, carpets and rugs.

In a touch of genius, batik pieces printed by Iranian artists living in Malaysia were also on display, in a sign of friendship between the two countries.

In his welcoming speech, Iranian Ambassador Ali Asghar Mohammadi, emphasised the importance of cultural exchanges in maintaining good ties between Malaysia and Iran.

“Malaysia and Iran are both melting pots of culture and there is a vast gastronomic diversity in both countries,” he said.

Pointing out how food has brought people together since ancient times, he added, “It is how we get to know each other, make friends, strengthen relationships, celebrate achievements and even mend conflicts.”

He said culinary cultures were also an important part of tourism, with the internet introducing people to cuisines from places far off, encouraging travel in search of good food.

However, he acknowledged that the Covid-19 pandemic had badly affected the tourism industry with strict travel restrictions making holidays abroad impossible. Despite the current state of tourism, he said he remained hopeful that things would turn out for the better.