On 9 March 2023, Consul-General Tor Saralamba and Madam Sirigamon Saralamba, opened their residence to international media and influencers for a cooking demonstration activity of popular dishes from ASEAN countries including Spicy Shrimp Salad from Myanmar, Khao Soi Soup with Chicken from Thailand, Beef Rendang from Indonesia, Char Kueh Tiaw from Malaysia, and Halo Halo from the Philippines. Madam Sirigamon took this opportunity to welcome all the distinguished media and guests to the residence and emphasized the importance of food culture which reflects history and heritage of each country in South East Asia. Furthermore, Madam Anil Fahriza Adenan, Consul-General of Malaysia and the 2023 AWCLA President, underlined the similarity yet diversity of cooking ingredients and food culture of ASEAN countries which reflects the identity and character of ASEAN nations.

The event “Flavors of ASEAN” is a part of several activities of AWCLA and ASEAN Consulates in Los Angeles to promote better understanding on cultures and identity of ASEAN countries to media and general public at large. The cooking demonstration received great attention from the media members and influencers. After the activity, all of the 70 participants enjoyed the food testing session of ASEAN popular menus together in a friendly and cozy atmosphere.