Third time’s a charm, some might say, but most of us will be hard pressed to find any positives during this period as the whole of Malaysia is placed under its third nationwide movement control order – the so-called ‘MCO 3.0’. And perhaps the biggest downer for many is that, now, no one will be able to reunite with families and friends across Malaysia, and even just over the Causeway in Singapore. Yes, this is now a very real prospect for many who miss their loved ones living outstation.
If you can’t physically be with those closest to your heart this festive season, however, there might just be alternative ways to stay emotionally connected at least. In this regard, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) hopes to inspire you with some ideas to keep the Raya celebrations alive for everyone to enjoy together.
In a one-of-a-kind collaborated with culinary powerhouse The Black Hole Group, STB jointly hosted Citarasa Singapore with TBHG, a virtual cooking masterclass. In the session, The Black Hole Group shared its techniques in creating a delicious Singapore-inspired Raya dish: Lamb Shank Merah. Hosted by its executive sous chef, Chef Zulfadli Normedi, over Zoom, the masterclass saw attendees such as Malaysian dance artiste Suhaili Micheline and lifestyle influencer Farhanah Firdaus, who joined to learn the ropes of creating this Singapore-inspired dish that’s perfect for the upcoming family feast.
“Though borders still remain closed between Malaysia and Singapore, we hope that the masterclass inspires Malaysians to incorporate flavours from this hearty Singapore-inspired dish as part of your festive menu. I am confident that the recipe from The Black Hole Group will earn you many compliments as your families savour it,” said Dawn Ng, Area Director of Singapore Tourism Board for Malaysia & Brunei.
Echoing Ng’s statement, Chef Zulfadli added: “Food is all about bringing people together to create memories and everlasting bonds. Although borders are still closed, we are delighted to share a taste of Singapore through this virtual masterclass.”
So, if you’re suddenly all excited about Hari Raya once again after discovering this bit of good news, then make sure to check out the Citarasa Singapore with TBHG virtual cooking masterclass at the Visit Singapore Facebook page.
And if you’re worried that staying at home means a serious case of boredom as you’re bound to run out of things to do, how about putting down that tablet for a minute and discover some tabletop games that come with a Singaporean twist. This way, you and the family are kept entertained during the Raya season with friendly rounds of Limpeh Says, a Singaporean localised version of that global favourite, Cards Against Humanity. Check out these Singapore-inspired games on the ToyTag website and consider getting them express delivered to Malaysia for this Raya week so you’ll stay sane at home.