Ipoh: Recognising that food is one of the instruments that unites various races in this country, the Jom Makan Ipoh 2026 Expo is a platform to promote the diversity and richness of food heritage open to locals and tourists. Minister of Housing and Local Government and Kepayang assemblyman, Nga Kor Ming, said the expo, organised by the Kepayang constituency service centre and several strategic partners, combines the preservation of culinary heritage, food culture education, city branding, and tourism promotion.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nga highlighted that the expo aligns with the Merdeka Month celebrations, emphasizing food as not only a tourism product but also a catalyst for national unity. He noted that food plays an essential role in uniting the multi-racial community, reflecting Malaysia's slogan, "Malaysia, Truly Asia." Nga made these remarks during the pre-launch of the programme.

The three-day event, scheduled from August 28 to 30 at Palo 101, will feature over 50 food and agricultural product stalls. These stalls will present 12 Ipoh specialties, street food, and a variety of selected food and agricultural products. Visitors can savor traditional and innovative dishes that embody the gastronomic identity of Ipoh city, such as Laksa Buyong, Ipoh White Coffee, nasi ayam taugeh, and puding taufu.

The festival will also include six Ipoh Food Culture Galleries, showcasing the history and evolution of local food culture. Highlights include galleries on Ipoh White Coffee, tin mining era food culture, kacang putih, Sambal and Ulam, and other culinary heritages synonymous with the city.

Various stage programmes are planned throughout the event, featuring cultural performances from different races, a "Food Talks Ipoh" sharing session, the launch of the Ipoh QR Digital Food Map, lucky draws, and a fireworks display at the closing ceremony. Nga mentioned that they expect over 20,000 visitors to attend the programme.