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Rearranged by Dato’ Fazley who is also a singer-actor, the new version of the Malaysian folk song incorporated notable Taipei features in its Malay and Chinese lyrics. This presents a brilliant essence of “undiscovered Taipei” which highlights its scenic spots and gourmet foods, further stressing on the already good impression of Taipei among Malaysian tourists.
Among Dato’ Fazley’s recommendations from the various Muslim-friendly destinations and eateries in Taipei were the specially marinated crispy chicken by Fried Chicken Master, award-winning pineapple cake by the century-old Kuo Yuan Ye pastry store, premium Formosan coffee by San Coffee, mango shaved ice by Ice Monster which is named by CNN as one of the world’s top 10 desserts, an eclectic selection of traditional Taiwanese treats by the Instagram-worthy Jingimoo dessert shop, the contemporary Amba hotels, as well as Taipei Double Decker Sightseeing Bus.
According to the latest statistics by the Tourism Bureau of Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the number of ASEAN tourists visiting Taiwan has exceeded 1.38 million from the period of January to July this year, and the figure is still escalating. Among all ASEAN countries, Malaysia topped the rank as the largest market for tourism in Taiwan, which then inspired the Taipei City’s Department of Information and Tourism to continue its efforts in boosting the number of Malaysian tourists this year.
During the press conference, the Department also launched a digital clip documenting Dato’ Fazley’s mouth-watering and treasure hunting mission which was part of his expedition to Taipei last month, whereby he discovered many eateries and places yet to be explored by Muslim tourists.
The on ground event also saw the public tasting several authentic delicacies including pineapple cake, fried chicken, Taiwanese coffee, mango shaved ice and other desserts that originated from Taipei.
Born and bred in Taiwan, Mickey Huang said he lives and breathes the air of the streets and alleys and has deep-rooted knowledge of what is fun and tasty in the city. “Who else can be the most ideal ambassador for Taipei, if it isn't me!”, he said. Having said that, Mickey Huang mentioned that he would often be surprised by new and interesting things in the city even if he is a local resident who has been living there all his life. Therefore, he recommends Malaysian tourists to continuously visit Taiwan as the country is always evolving, presenting something new to see each time.
Echoing Mickey Huang’s sentiment, Dato’ Fazley added that he still discovers something new and fun each time he visits Taipei, though he has visited the city more than once. He especially adores the food in Taipei and quipped, “Taipei’s night markets are where you can find tasty dishes, such as stinky tofu and beef noodles. These are great food in Taipei that I cannot forget.” He also added that Taipei has many Muslim-friendly restaurants and hotels and recommended Muslims to visit Taipei with peace of mind.