TEHRAN/KUALA LUMPUR – Iran has earned top recognition at the International Culture and Art Exhibition hosted by the University of Malaya (UM), triumphing over 45 participating countries in a vibrant three-day celebration of global traditions, cuisine, and creativity.
The event, held as part of UM’s International Week and coinciding with Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, brought together more than 10,000 visitors, including students, faculty, diplomats, and local officials. The closing ceremony was attended by Malaysia’s Minister of Higher Education, Zambry Abdul Kadir, along with ambassadors and representatives from participating nations.
Iran’s pavilion — organized by Iranian professors and students residing in Malaysia under the direction of Dr. Adeleh Asemi, with support from the Cultural Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Malaysia — drew significant attention for its vibrant presentation of traditional arts, handicrafts, and authentic Persian cuisine.
Habib Reza Arzani, Iran’s Cultural Counselor in Malaysia, visited the festival, meeting with Iranian participants and commending their efforts to showcase Iran’s diverse cultural heritage.
At the closing ceremony, Iran was named among the festival’s top-ranking participants, alongside India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Japan, and Bangladesh. Dr. Asemi, a University of Malaya faculty member holding a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, received the award on behalf of the Iranian team.
Organizers highlighted Iran’s booth for its artistic depth and engaging display of national heritage — from handmade crafts and calligraphy to music and culinary demonstrations. The presentation, they said, successfully reflected the “soul of Iranian culture” while fostering cross-cultural understanding.