Tarun kumar
New Delhi, India – CD Foundation, in collaboration with the High Commission of Malaysia, successfully hosted ‘Coffee Morning with Malaysia’ on December 3, 2025, at Eros Hotel, New Delhi — a landmark edition of its flagship diplomacy-led event series that brought together more than 35 countries, with Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and senior diplomats in attendance.
This prestigious gathering highlighted the growing warmth between India and Malaysia, while also reaffirming the role of cultural exchange and sustainable dialogue in strengthening international partnerships.
🌍 Spotlight on Diplomacy, Culture & Trade
In his keynote remarks, H.E. Muzafar Shah Mustafa, High Commissioner of Malaysia to India, stated:
“Malaysia and India share deep-rooted cultural, historical, and trade connections. Today’s celebration is not just about friendship, but about shared opportunities — whether in sustainable palm oil, culinary diplomacy, or people-to-people ties. We are proud to partner with CD Foundation in bringing together such a powerful platform of voices.”
Ms. Charu Das, Founder & Director of CD Foundation, shared:
“Our Coffee Mornings are about creating new narratives through culture, conversation, and collaboration. Today was more than a gathering — it was a reaffirmation of our shared vision. The India–Malaysia bond is not just diplomatic, it’s deeply human — and this morning reflected that spirit beautifully.”
💬 Panel Discussion: “Sustainability, Food Diplomacy & ASEAN–India Cooperation”
A key highlight of the morning was a panel discussion featuring diplomats, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, where conversations ranged from culinary tourism to cultural soft power — and importantly, to sustainable trade partnerships, such as responsible palm oil production and its role in India–Malaysia economic ties.
Speakers emphasized the need to reframe palm oil not only as a major trade commodity but also as a sustainable livelihood engine when managed responsibly — aligning with India’s growing focus on ethical sourcing and ASEAN cooperation.
Cultural Performance & Immersive Experience
The morning concluded with a breathtaking cultural performance by a traditional Malaysian troupe, showcasing the vibrant rhythms, costumes, and stories of Malaysia’s multicultural heritage — a performance that received a standing ovation from the international audience.
The curated menu of authentic Malaysian delicacies, including Nasi Lemak, Satay Ayam, and Kuih desserts, turned the event into a culinary celebration of Malaysia’s diverse identity, adding flavour to the diplomacy.
A Decade of Bridges: CD Foundation’s Legacy
Now marking 10 years of impact, CD Foundation continues to be a pioneer in people-to-people diplomacy across 45+ countries, through platforms like World & Us Festival Series, Embassy Connect, and Entrepreneurs Club – World & Us. The Coffee Morning series has emerged as a signature soft diplomacy space for dialogue between nations, embassies, artists, businesses, and communities.
With strategic focus on India–ASEAN collaborations, the Foundation is poised to further explore joint Malaysia–India initiatives in sectors such as tourism, palm oil trade, culinary innovation, education, and cultural exchange.
