Italian craftsmanship and culinary culture took centre stage in Kuala Lumpur as “Make It Authentically, Make It Italian” returned with a flavourful showcase at B.I.G. Publika on June 10, 2025.
When Ben’s Independent Grocer at Publika hosted the latest edition of “Make It Authentically, Make It Italian,” guests were transported to a vibrant marketplace of Italian sights, smells and tastes. The event was a collaboration between The Food Purveyor (TFP), the Embassy of Italy in Kuala Lumpur, and the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), and proved to be a fitting tribute to Italy’s food heritage.
Officiated by Dr. Angela Donvito, Trade Commissioner of the Italian Trade Agency, alongside Ivan Tan, Group Executive Director of TFP Retail Sdn Bhd, the event spotlighted more than just premium goods – it celebrated culture, craftsmanship, and centuries-old culinary traditions.
One of the highlights was a live cooking demonstration by celebrated Italian chef Stefano Criber, who prepared a rich pasta dish inside a giant cheese wheel. With deft movements and a flourish of parmesan, the dish came together in real time, much to the delight of the gathered crowd. Every swirl of fettuccine drew smiles and applause, and each bite spoke of quality, tradition, and artistry.
Around the venue, tasting stations offered an indulgent array of Italian favourites, from fresh pasta and crisp salads to classic tiramisù. illy coffee was brewed to perfection, and generous scoops of Fabbri gelato provided a sweet, creamy counterpoint to the savoury offerings.
“We’re here to showcase Italian food products because their exceptional quality is a great source of pride for all Italians,” Dr. Donvito said during her remarks. “We want Malaysians to experience the richness of our culinary tradition firsthand.”
Echoing her sentiments, Ivan Tan added, “At The Food Purveyor, we don’t just sell groceries – we share stories. This collaboration lets us present our customers with authentic products and an immersive experience rooted in heritage, tradition and community.”
The event also highlighted the importance of authenticity. In a marketplace saturated with imitations, truly Italian products stand out – not only for their quality but for the stories they carry. Each bottle of olive oil, wedge of cheese, and package of pasta on display came with a legacy – a generational connection to craft and place.
And this experience doesn’t end with the event. Thanks to this special initiative, a curated selection of authentic Italian products is now available across Village Grocer, Ben’s Independent Grocer, The Food Merchant, and BSC Fine Foods – allowing Malaysian consumers to bring the true taste of Italy into their own kitchens.
QUICK TAKES
- The pasta demo was a crowd favourite – creamy, dramatic and delicious.
- The sampling stations covered all the classics, from starters to dessert.
- Thoughtful merchandising reflected a clear commitment to authenticity and quality.
WHY IT MATTERS
This was more than a retail event – it was a cultural exchange. Malaysians had the opportunity to experience the depth and nuance of Italian cuisine, while Italy continued to share the best of its culinary tradition with an appreciative audience. The collaboration reinforced the message that food connects us – across tables, across cultures, and across borders.
To learn more, please visit villagegrocer.com.my, big.com.my, and bscfinefoods.com.
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