Fairmont Mumbai Hosts Malaysian Food Festival with Tourism Malaysia

A Ten-Day Culinary Showcase Celebrating Malaysia’s Food Heritage

Fairmont Mumbai has partnered with Tourism Malaysia to present a Malaysian Food Festival at The Merchants, running from 30 January to 8 February 2026. The initiative brings Malaysia’s diverse culinary traditions to Mumbai through an immersive dining experience rooted in authenticity and cultural exchange.

Career Background

Hosted at The Merchants, the hotel’s signature New Wave Foodhall, the festival transforms the space into a vibrant platform showcasing Malaysia’s regional flavours through live kitchens and interactive culinary stations.

Renowned Malaysian Chefs Lead the Collaboration

The festival is led by two respected voices of Malaysian cuisine—Chef Irwan, Corporate Executive Chef at Adabi Consumer Industries, and Chef Faridul Ataras Ab Razak, Executive Chef at Ibis Hotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre. Together with Fairmont Mumbai’s culinary team, the chefs present dishes shaped by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and regional influences.

Culinary Direction and Experiential Philosophy

Key Achievements

Guided by Chef Prasad Metrani, Executive Assistant Manager – Food & Beverage, the festival balances traditional techniques with contemporary presentation. The curated menu is designed to honour culinary heritage while engaging modern diners through experiential storytelling and open-kitchen formats.

Visit Malaysia Year 2026 in Focus

Aligned with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the collaboration reflects Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to promote cultural diplomacy through food. The festival invites Indian travellers and Mumbai’s dining community to experience Malaysia’s culinary identity in an accessible yet refined setting.

A Curated Buffet Journey

Current Role & Responsibilities

Presented as a lunch and dinner buffet, the experience highlights classic starters, vibrant salads, comforting soups, flavour-forward mains, and traditional desserts. Signature beverages such as Teh Tarik, cendol, and Malaysian-inspired cocktails complement the menu, while cultural attire and service details enhance the immersive atmosphere.

Positioning The Merchants as a Global Culinary Destination

The Malaysian Food Festival underscores Fairmont Mumbai’s strategy of positioning The Merchants as a destination for international culinary collaborations—where cuisine becomes a gateway to culture, storytelling, and shared guest experiences.