Malaysia adopted

EMERALD will embrace the rich culture of Malaysia on Sunday to celebrate the Shire of Cardinia’s adoption of the country’s Commonwealth Games team.
The Commonwealth Games Getting Involved committee spokesman, councillor Brett Owen, said the Shire of Cardinia chose Malaysia as its adopted country because of its increasing ties with Australia.
Local residents have been invited to join in the colours, flavours and sounds of the festival which will be held at Emerald Lake Park on Sunday, 5 March.
Cr Owen said the Malaysian tourism bureau has been very supportive, arranging for a Malaysian cultural troupe performing traditional Malaysian music and dance to attend the festival.
A Malaysian chef will also have a display of food, and there will be a number of craft, weaving and games for children held throughout the day.
Cr Owen has urged all residents to come along for an introduction to Malaysian food, music and fun.
The Hello Malaysia festival will be held at Emerald Lake Park from 10.30am to 4pm, and entry is free.