The Chinese chicken that spread its wings
Traditional Hainanese delicacy has established itself as a Southeast Asian staple, thanks to emigrants from China
Having tasted Hainanese chicken rice in both Hainan and Malaysia, Heng says the dish is different in the two places because of both the sauce and the way the dish is cooked.
"Our ancestors came to Malaysia to do business not just with Hainanese. There are different races and different cultures here, so we have combined the cultures to develop Malaysia's Hainanese chicken rice," he says.
"The Hainanese chicken rice in Malaysia is very international, and it is enjoyed by Malays and foreigners alike," he says, noting that the dish embodies the wisdom of their ancestors.
He believes that although culture is constantly evolving, the spirit of the Hainanese, especially their hardworking attitude, is still passed on from generation to generation in Malaysia.
"It's a touching moment whenever we have Hainanese chicken rice. For us, it's not only a delicacy, but indeed a part of our cultural roots, and we will continue to pass it on," Heng says.
