ASEAN media interview team from Nanning, Guangxi explores Malaysian Chinese entrepreneurship stories

On September 22, the vibrant city of Nanning in Guangxi was abuzz with excitement as “Nanyang Xiaozhu,” a Southeast Asian restaurant, welcomed a special delegation—the ASEAN Media Interview Group. This group comprised twelve media representatives from nine ASEAN countries, including Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Cambodia.

The restaurant’s lively décor is a feast for the eyes, featuring colorful murals and unique ornaments that evoke the feel of a bustling street-side eatery in Southeast Asia. An open kitchen in the corner is a hive of activity, where talented chefs work tirelessly to prepare a diverse array of authentic dishes that fill the air with enticing aromas.

Tang Yufeng, the restaurant’s owner, greeted the media group with warmth and enthusiasm. A third-generation Malaysian Chinese originally from Kuala Lumpur, Tang’s passion for the region’s diverse culinary heritage shaped his journey. In 2018, recognizing the potential in Guangxi, he made the move north, investing hundreds of thousands of RMB to open his restaurant and bring the flavors of Southeast Asia to Nanning. Through years of dedication, Tang has successfully established several food chains in the area, making ASEAN cuisine a beloved choice among locals.

“I’ve always had a deep passion for food,” Tang shared, reflecting on his motivations as an entrepreneur. “When I came to Nanning, I noticed how curious and fond the people were of Southeast Asian cuisine, and that inspired me to create a place where they could experience authentic dishes.”

Members of the media group eagerly explored the kitchen, where chefs skillfully prepared mouthwatering offerings like Bak Kut Teh, colorful Nyonya cakes, and rich curry chicken. During the tasting session, the journalists couldn’t hide their delight at the flavors.

“The food here absolutely retains the authentic Southeast Asian taste, and each bite is packed with a rich cultural heritage,” noted Wen Guoxin, a journalist from Malaysia’s Sin Chew Daily.

“This experience of cross-regional culinary exchange really enhances our understanding of the strong connections among ASEAN countries,” added Wilson Flores, a columnist for the Philippine Star.

Throughout the visit, Tang also spoke candidly about the challenges he faced while launching his business, from sourcing the right ingredients to mastering the flavors. He underscored his dedication to maintaining high standards, ensuring that every patron enjoys the most genuine Southeast Asian dining experience.

“This interview allowed us to not only learn about Tang Yufeng’s entrepreneurial journey but also to appreciate the inclusivity and cultural diversity that Nanning represents,” said Lin Jinshuang, a journalist with the Cambodian ASEAN News Agency. “Nanyang Xiaozhu is more than just a restaurant; it acts as a cultural bridge, helping people gain insights into ASEAN nations through food.”

“I envision a future where more entrepreneurs like Tang Yufeng will play pivotal roles in fostering cultural exchange and economic collaboration between ASEAN countries and China,” Lin concluded.