New Book Alert: Sarawak – The Story of Our Food by Heidi Munan

📚 Just Launched: “Sarawak – The Story of Our Food” by Heidi Munan!

On Wednesday, Dec 17, Heidi Munan unveiled her latest masterpiece, Sarawak – The Story of Our Food, a 144-page journey into the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia’s largest state. Packed with colorful and black-and-white photographs, historical accounts, and oral histories collected from decades of personal research, this book is a feast for both the eyes and the mind.

Swiss-born Adelheid Oettli, better known as Heidi Munan, has lived in Sarawak for over 60 years and authored 16 books since 1988, including her previous works on Sarawak culture and food heritage.

🍲 What makes this book special?

✅Explores what Sarawakians ate before rice
✅Reveals how locals foraged, prepared, and shared food

✅Shows the influence of religion, superstition, and migration on local cuisine
✅Highlights traditional cooking styles, cookware, and dishes for everyday life vs. special occasions
✅Includes heartfelt anecdotes from real families, like helping fishermen with the day’s catch

✨ Did you know? Long before rice, the staple was linut (sago porridge)! Heidi even describes the Penans’ unique way of eating it with special double chopsticks.

While not a cookbook, there’s a special recipe included: Manok Pansuh (Chicken in Bamboo with Herbs)—a small but delightful treat for readers!

During the book launch Q&A, Heidi shared her personal favorite Sarawak dish: durian tempoyak with bacon bits, fried onions, and rice—a true taste of local tradition.

She also hopes the Sarawak Cultures Museum will consider dedicating a space to showcase the Foods of Sarawak, celebrating the diverse culinary heritage of the state.

🎁 Perfect gift idea for Christmas: Grab a copy for yourself, family, or friends and discover the fascinating story behind Sarawak’s foods!