Bafochi leading the lively showcase of cultures. — Photos: GLENN GUAN/The Star
CULTURES of eight Latin American countries struck a memorable appearance in Kuala Lumpur during the annual Latin American Festival.
Delegates from eight Latin American embassies, namely Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay gathered at BB Park in Bukit Bintang to showcase their crafts, music, dance as well as cuisine.
Brazilian ambassador to Malaysia Ary Quintella described the 15th edition of the event as a significant milestone.
“The festival was a modest initiative when it started 15 years ago.
“Our countries have since embarked on an adventure to share our rich traditions and cultures with Malaysia.
“As time passed, it blossomed into a vibrant display of culture, music and culinary delights.
“It has also cemented a place on Kuala Lumpur’s cultural calendar as a much anticipated event,” said Quintella, who is also the dean of the Group of Latin American Embassies in Malaysia (Grulac).
(From sixth right) Low and Quintella with ambassadors from participating countries, representatives of co-organisers and guests at the opening ceremony of Latin American Festival.
He said the festival, jointly organised by Grulac, Plaza Low Yat, Federal Hotels International and Latin Women’s Association of Malaysia (LWAM), was a good platform for people to recognise the similarities between Malaysia and Latin America.
“Both are rich in cultural heritage characterised by a warm and welcoming spirit.
“They are also known for their vibrant festivities, deep love for music and dance, as well as rich culinary traditions,” Quintella said in his opening remarks.
He added that some of the capital’s iconic landmarks such as Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park, were designed by artists and architects of South American origin, reflecting the strong presence of the region’s cultures in Malaysia.
“Such collaborations stand as emblems that combine the talents and efforts of Malaysians and Latin Americans.”
The opening ceremony was followed by a children’s parade which saw groups of Latin American and Caribbean children wearing jerseys, or national costumes as well as carrying national flags while marching onto the stage.
The scene was made more lively by Chilean folk dance troupe Bafochi.
Throughout the afternoon, each participating country also presented performances that reflected their cultures.
Food and drinks are part of the sharing of Latin America’s rich traditions and cultures with Malaysia at the festival, which is in its 15th edition.
About 7,000 visitors also enjoyed a display of crafts and food at the booths set up by the embassies.
Entrepreneur Manny Vertiz, 28, who had visited the festival for six consecutive years, said it provided a chance for people to experience authentic Latin American cultures.
“Many of the vendors here are real Latin Americans who may have come here for jobs.
“It is beautiful that they prepare their food and beverage in exactly the same way that these are prepared back home.
“The absence of commercial packaging made them truly authentic,” said Vertiz, who originates from Peru.
First-time visitor Jaime Yan, 40, said the festival fostered a good crossover of cultures between Malaysia and Latin America.
“The locals get to experience the cultures from the other side of the Earth,” she said.
“I will definitely come again next year to show my support.”
Present were ambassadors from the participating countries, Low Yat Group director Datuk Low Gee Teong and representatives of co-organisers Tourism Malaysia, Federal Hotels International and LWAM, as well as Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
