"There are a lot of Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese restaurants here, but there are no Indonesian or Padang food restaurants. I believe our food, particularly rendang, can compete (with other national foods)," Lubis told West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi while observing a send-off ceremony for rendang spices exports via online means here on Monday.
The ambassador advised the governor to get in touch with the Tourism and Creative Economy Ministry and seek its support for opening a Padang food restaurant in Oslo, as food would be one of the easiest means to promote Indonesian culture.
"Norwegians are keen to experience new things, including new foods. I believe our foods will be welcomed and (our restaurants) in Oslo will be frequented by customers," Lubis said.
He also suggested that the government consider promoting the development of Indonesian restaurants in all national capitals to promote Indonesian food and culture.
Meanwhile, Mahyeldi said that the ambassador pointed out opportunities in various aspects. Apart from the benefit in terms of the business aspect, West Sumatra government can also promote local culture by opening a Padang food restaurant in Norway, he said.
"We will discuss this with the Minang diaspora there. If possible, we will open more Padang food restaurants in other countries as it will greatly benefit West Sumatra," he informed.
West Sumatra is renowned for its delicious food, which complements the province's rich culture, art, and natural beauty, he added.
In 2011, Minang dish rendang -- slow-cooked and braised meat seasoned in rich spices -- was named the most delicious food in CNN International's World's 50 Most Delicious Foods list.
Rendang again appeared as the 11th most delicious food on the same list in 2021.
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Translator: Miko Elfisha, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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