- 18
- Episodes
- 8
- Ratings
- Daily
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About Satay? Okay!
Satay? Okay! is about the foods that have shaped Malaysia. Go on a deep dive into Malaysian food culture and discover how events in history can be seen in the food today. Join hosts Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson as they explore Malaysia’s most iconic foods and how they’ve been shaped by the past. They’ll be joined by food writers, chefs, academics and community leaders, who will share their perspectives on one of the world’s most misunderstood cuisines. This is a podcast that will make you rethink everything you know about food. It will introduce you to a Malaysia that you’ve never heard of before – a nation filled with diverse communities, cultures and stories. Will you join us for Satay? Okay!
- Publisher
- Satay? Okay!
- Category
- arts · society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 29 Jul 2025
- Latest episode
- 6 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
6 Oct 2026
17. Nasi Lemak and the Dawn of Malaysia
Nasi lemak is the national dish of Malaysia. Does this humble rice dish encapsulate the story of Malaysian independence? The early 20th Century saw all parts of Malaya and north Borneo under some form of colonial control. But with the advent of World War II, the invasion by Japan would upend the lives of locals once again. Cookbook author Kalsom Taib is older than the country of Malaysia. She was born during the occupation and shares what it was like in the years before, during and after the war. She also recounts how food has transformed over the decades, for better or worse. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Druce, Stephen C and Nani Suryani Haji Abu Bakar. 2023. Brunei and the World Since 1984. Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Brunei, pp. 100-117. eds. Ooi Keat Gin and Victor T. King. London: Routledge. "Scorched Earth" Policy Hansard Volume 377: debated on Thursday 8 January 1942 https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/1942-01-08/debates/06602dd3-6929-4a8a-b4da-0c30b4427c9d/ScorchedEarthPolicy (https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/1942-01-08/debates/06602dd3-6929-4a8a-b4da-0c30b4427c9d/ScorchedEarthPolicy) SCORCHED EARTH POLICY IN MALAYA, The Canberra Times, 16 Jan 1942 Page 1 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2585976 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2585976) Operation Sook Ching by Stephanie Ho, National Library of Singapore https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=cc4da337-3bcd-4f96-bdc6-5210646bdd90 (https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=cc4da337-3bcd-4f96-bdc6-5210646bdd90) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
29 Sept 2026
16. Bosou and the Fight for Sabah Part 2
From traditional to contemporary, we look at the other side of Sabah culture. Continuing on from Part 1, we learn about efforts to modernise traditional indigenous cuisine through fine dining. Raphael Jay Peter Lee is head chef of OITOM, a restaurant in Kota Kinabalu that aims to redefine what Sabahan cuisine is. But it turns out that instilling traditional cultural values into your restaurant requires more than just a menu change. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Druce, Stephen C and Nani Suryani Haji Abu Bakar. 2023. Brunei and the World Since 1984. Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Brunei, pp. 100-117. eds. Ooi Keat Gin and Victor T. King. London: Routledge. The Making of Sabah, 1865-1941: The Dynamics of Indigenous Society, University of Malaya Press, 2000 Titas Chakraborty, Matthias van Rossum, Slave Trade and Slavery in Asia—New Perspectives, Journal of Social History, Volume 54, Issue 1, Fall 2020, Pages 1–14, https://doi.org/10.1093/jsh/shaa004 (https://doi.org/10.1093/jsh/shaa004) James Warren, The Sulu Zone 1768–1898: The Dynamics of External Trade, Slavery, and Ethnicity in the Transformation of a Southeast Asian Maritime State (Singapore, 2007) Barbara Andaya, To Live as Brothers: Southeast Sumatra in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries (Honolulu, 1993). Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
29 Sept 2026
15. Bosou and the Fight for Sabah Part 1
Almost anything can be turned into bosou. Sabah's favourite fermented condiment can be found in vegetable, meat and fish forms. It's a dish of survival, and a core part of indigenous identity. Brunei's grip over Northern Borneo weakened in the 19th Century. Before long, land rights were acquired by the British North Borneo Company, kicking off a period of corporate colonialism. To survive, indigenous communities could either play along or rebel. Dr Richard Gunting is a Murut community leader and founder of Borneo Outback Tours. His home of Nabawan is one of Sabah's poorest districts and both the environmental and Murut culture is at stake. Richard shares his efforts to use ecotourism to reverse his community's fortunes. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Druce, Stephen C and Nani Suryani Haji Abu Bakar. 2023. Brunei and the World Since 1984. Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Brunei, pp. 100-117. eds. Ooi Keat Gin and Victor T. King. London: Routledge. The Making of Sabah, 1865-1941: The Dynamics of Indigenous Society, University of Malaya Press, 2000 Titas Chakraborty, Matthias van Rossum, Slave Trade and Slavery in Asia—New Perspectives, Journal of Social History, Volume 54, Issue 1, Fall 2020, Pages 1–14, https://doi.org/10.1093/jsh/shaa004 (https://doi.org/10.1093/jsh/shaa004) James Warren, The Sulu Zone 1768–1898: The Dynamics of External Trade, Slavery, and Ethnicity in the Transformation of a Southeast Asian Maritime State (Singapore, 2007) Barbara Andaya, To Live as Brothers: Southeast Sumatra in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries (Honolulu, 1993). Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
22 Sept 2026
14. Tuak and the White Rajahs Part 2
A new generation of Sarawakians are breathing life into the burgeoning tuak industry. But can they take this drink worldwide when brewing tuak is technically illegal? Continuing on from Part 1, we look at the future of the tuak industry in Sarawak. Arif Abdul Rahman co-runs the Borneo Tuak Festival. He shares how the industry has transformed over the past ten years and the challenges it faces in the future. We also hear from Martiana Chia who contemplates Sarawak's food future. Can the state live up to its reputation as City of Gastronomy? Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Druce, Stephen C and Nani Suryani Haji Abu Bakar. 2023. Brunei and the World Since 1984. Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Brunei, pp. 100-117. eds. Ooi Keat Gin and Victor T. King. London: Routledge. The Rajahs of Sarawak, The Spectator, 1940 https://archive.spectator.co.uk/article/29th-january-1910/40/the-rajahs-of-sarawak (https://archive.spectator.co.uk/article/29th-january-1910/40/the-rajahs-of-sarawak) The little-known tree that revolutionised global communication, BBC Global https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rLTixi7pOo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rLTixi7pOo) A Land of Rice and History — The Role of Tuak, the Traditional Fermented Rice Drink, in Sarawak, Malaysia by Anna Sulan Masing, Good Beer Hunting, 2022 https://www.goodbeerhunting.com/blog/2022/7/20/a-land-of-rice-and-history-the-role-of-tuak-the-traditional-fermented-rice-drink-in-sarawak-malaysia (https://www.goodbeerhunting.com/blog/2022/7/20/a-land-of-rice-and-history-the-role-of-tuak-the-traditional-fermented-rice-drink-in-sarawak-malaysia) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
22 Sept 2026
13. Tuak and the White Rajahs of Sarawak Part 1
Tuak is more than just rice wine, it's a core part of indigenous identity in Sarawak. But can the traditions of tuak be upheld if the drink is commercialised? The golden age of Brunei ended from the 16th Century, leaving a weakened empire ripe for exploitation. Enter James Brooke, a so-called private individual who colonised his way to become the first White Rajah of Sarawak. Academic, food writer and poet Anna Sulan Masing talks about the importance of tuak to Dayak culture, while Martiana Chia (or Mars) of The Rasa tells us what it's like to start a tuak business with her grandmother. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Druce, Stephen C and Nani Suryani Haji Abu Bakar. 2023. Brunei and the World Since 1984. Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Brunei, pp. 100-117. eds. Ooi Keat Gin and Victor T. King. London: Routledge. The Rajahs of Sarawak, The Spectator, 1940 https://archive.spectator.co.uk/article/29th-january-1910/40/the-rajahs-of-sarawak (https://archive.spectator.co.uk/article/29th-january-1910/40/the-rajahs-of-sarawak) The little-known tree that revolutionised global communication, BBC Global https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rLTixi7pOo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rLTixi7pOo) A Land of Rice and History — The Role of Tuak, the Traditional Fermented Rice Drink, in Sarawak, Malaysia by Anna Sulan Masing, Good Beer Hunting, 2022 https://www.goodbeerhunting.com/blog/2022/7/20/a-land-of-rice-and-history-the-role-of-tuak-the-traditional-fermented-rice-drink-in-sarawak-malaysia (https://www.goodbeerhunting.com/blog/2022/7/20/a-land-of-rice-and-history-the-role-of-tuak-the-traditional-fermented-rice-drink-in-sarawak-malaysia) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
15 Sept 2026
12. Ginger and the Empires of Borneo
Ginger root isn't the only ginger out there. Malaysia boasts dozens of different gingers, some that are only found in Borneo. Much of Malaysian Borneo's early history concerns Brunei, an ancient kingdom that sprung up in the 10th century. Like other coastal sultanates, Brunei was a maritime trade empire, specialising in jungle products found no where else. Critical to this trade system was Borneo's indigenous communities, which are still thriving today. Pison Jaujip is one of Sabah's most famous content creators. He runs Ropuhan Di Tanak Wagu, or Bachelor's Kitchen, where he teaches people to cook traditional Sabahan foods. His efforts are helping to document a cuisine that is fast-changing. Vicky Chong, meanwhile, runs Walai Dahai Corner in Kota Kinabalu, where she runs classes on traditional Dusun foods. She sits down with us to share the stories behind classic heritage foods, many of which are rooted in survival. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Druce, Stephen C and Nani Suryani Haji Abu Bakar. 2023. Brunei and the World Since 1984. Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Brunei, pp. 100-117. eds. Ooi Keat Gin and Victor T. King. London: Routledge. Ji, F. (2018). The Chinese Kongsis in West Borneo: the Rise of the Chinese in Global Trade in the Early and Mid-19th Century [Brandeis University]. https://doi.org/10.48617/etd.853 (https://doi.org/10.48617/etd.853) Charles Spence, Ginger: The pungent spice, International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science, Volume 33,2023, 100793, ISSN 1878-450X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgfs.2023.100793 (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijgfs.2023.100793) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
8 Sept 2026
11. Rice and the Birth of Borneo
Where does rice come from? The oldest rice grain found in Malaysia is in Sarawak, but rice likely didn't originate from there. The tale of everyone's favourite grain tells us a lot about Borneo and its people. In this Season 2 premiere episode, we take a look at the Borneo side of Malaysia. We look at the indigenous Dayak peoples and trace their lineage back tens of thousands of years ago, when Borneo wasn't even an island. Sharing her knowledge of Dayak cuisine and culture is Livan Lah, chef and owner of LePau Restaurant in Kuching, Sarawak. As a proud Kayan woman, she introduces us to exciting native foods you may never have heard of, as well as the stories behind them. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Borneo: The History of an Enigma (2026), Olivier Hein Wirawan, I. G. B., Suda, I. K., Adnyana, I. G., Sukadana, I. W., Winyana, I. N., & Yudabakti, I. M. (2025). The role of Yupa inscription as Yantra in Shiva worship: interpreting stone relics through contemporary practices in Kutai Kartanegara. Cogent Arts & Humanities, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/23311983.2025.2521981 (https://doi.org/10.1080/23311983.2025.2521981) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
19 Nov 2025
10. Chicken Rice and the Making of an Empire
What does an American missionary have to do with Hainanese Chicken Rice in Malaysia? More than you ever thought possible. In this season finale, we follow Malaysia's story up to the beginning of the 20th Century. The full occupation of the Malay peninsular is in Britain's sight. Spurious contracts, military force and secret conventions render the Malay rulers powerless. At the same time, war is brewing in China, leaving many to seek refugee in the comparative safety of Malaya. We speak to chef Xianji Chen on the unique chicken rice stylings of Melaka. We also hear from Tan Tee Yong and Sherine Tan, owners of Happy Garden Restaurant in Penang, Yong shares his experiences of fusing British and Chinese culinary traditions and discusses his fears that the future of our food culture comes down to packaging. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Lee, E., Wong, S.P., Laxman, L. Language Maintenance and Cultural Viability in the Hainanese Community: A Case Study of the Melaka Hainanese (2014). Athens Journal of Humanities & Arts, Vol. 1, no. 2 pp. 157 – 168, https://doi.org/10.30958/ajha.1-2-6 (https://doi.org/10.30958/ajha.1-2-6) Hoe Kee Chicken Rice - 468, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Happy Garden Restoran - 206b, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Batu Feringgi, 11050 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr English Dub by Liu Ziyang Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
12 Nov 2025
9. Toddy and the Colonisers' Secret Treaty
There's no whisky in a Malaysian toddy. That's because toddy in Malaysia refers to the kombucha-like coconut drink. Toddy is sugary, sour and a bit funky. But like so many of Malaysia's foods, the sweet taste obscures a very dark origin. In the 19th Century, the British East India Company continued its campaign to control the Malay peninsular. Powering this new empire, however, required a substantial labour force. But in a post-slavery world, Britain would need a different approach to securing cheap workers. We hear from Sushil Nair, owner of Nachi Toddy (@nachitoddy) on the importance of toddy to the Indian and Sri Lankan communities. He talks us through toddy brewing techniques, starting a toddy business and the anti-toddy attitudes from within his own community. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya The Plantation as Subject? Centring the Plantation within Malayan Anti-Colonial Histories (https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/seac/2024/11/28/the-plantation-as-subject-centring-the-plantation-within-malayan-anti-colonial-histories/)(28 Nov 2024), London School of Economics, Sahil Bhagat Krishnan, P., & Raman, J.J. (2018). Toddy Business among the Indian Labour in Colonial Malaya, 1900-1957. International journal of humanities and social science, 8. Parameswari, K. (2014). Anti-toddy movement in Malaya, 1900-1957. Krishnan, D. P. ., Raman, D. J. H. J. ., & Darkasi , S. . (2020). Between Life and Death: Suicide amongst the Indian Labour in Colonial Malaya, 1900-1941. International Journal of Social Science and Economics Invention, 6(09), 351 TO 355. https://doi.org/10.23958/ijssei/vol06-i09/235 (https://doi.org/10.23958/ijssei/vol06-i09/235) Krishnan, P., Raman, J.J., Krishnan, R. (2020). A Study on the History of Estate Tamil Schools in Malaya, MALAYSIA dari segi SEJARAH Nachi Toddy - Portuguese Settlement, Medan Selera, Portuguese Settlement, Melaka, 75050 Malacca, Malaysia Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
5 Nov 2025
8. Laksa and the Great British Lie
Tried laksa with spaghetti? Or sour tamarind laksa? Laksa comes in many forms, but a classic Nyonya laksa has captured global hearts more than others. Its a dish that's central to the Chinese Peranakan community - a community that found unusual favour in Britain-controlled Malaya. As the 18th Century rolled on, the Malay world faced growing European pressure, especially with the rise of the British East India Company. They came not just to trade, but to control. Armed with the power of deception, the Company set its sights on the island of Penang. We hear from Peranakan researcher Dr David Neo, on the rise of Chinese Peranakan communities in colonial Malaya. He also shares his experiences on the extravagance of Nyonya cuisine and its uncertain future. And Lillian Tong, Director of the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, recounts life growing up in Penang. She discusses the shame of being Peranakan in the 1980s and the sudden revival and popularisation in the 1990s. Resources and References A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Neo, D. H., Ngo, S.-S., & Heng, J. G. K. (2019). Popular imaginary and cultural constructions of the Nonya in Peranakan Chinese culture of the Straits Settlements. Ethnicities, 20(1), 24-48. https://doi.org/10.1177/1468796819867399 (https://doi.org/10.1177/1468796819867399) Growing Up in a Nonya Kitchen: Asian Recipes from My Mother (2021), Sharon Wee The Nyonya Kebaya: A Showcase Collection of Nyonya Kebayas from The Collection of Datin Seri Endon Mahmood (2002), Datin Seri Endon Mahmood Pinang Peranakan Mansion - 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
29 Oct 2025
7. Kueh and the Unlikely Dutch Affair
Kueh defies classification. Even kueh experts can't land on a definition. Perhaps that's because kueh has influences from around the world, notably from European colonisers. After the invasion of Melaka by the Portuguese armada, much of South East Asia faced the firm grip of colonialism. By the 17th Century, the Dutch VOC empire had invaded parts of Indonesia in a violent pursuit to control spice production. But the Malay rulers would soon learn that the enemy of my enemy is my friend. The kueh of today is a reflection of this colonial past. Kueh-master Christopher Tan (@thewayofkueh) shares some of the most fascinating stories of kueh you will ever hear. He connects the wide-world of South East Asian kuehs with traditions from the Netherlands, Turkey and even the US! We also hear from Noor Azura, owner of Kuih Keria Antarabangsa. She shares her inspiring story of how one kuih has changed the fortunes of her entire family. Resources and References The Way of Kueh (2019), Christopher Tan Nerdbaker: Extraordinary Recipes, Stories & Baking Adventures from a True Oven Geek Paperback (2015), Christopher Tan Nerdbaker 2: Tales of the Yeast Indies (2024), Christopher Tan A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Merchant Kings - When Companies Ruled the World 1600-1900 (2010), Stephen R Bown The Batavia Massacre: The Tragic End to a Century of Cooperation (https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4490&context=theses) (2019), Kimberley Wilhelmina Wells The Dutch East India Company (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/b071vl2l) - BBC Sounds Kuih Keria Antarabangsa (https://www.facebook.com/p/Kuih-Keria-Antarabangsa-Haji-Jalil-Limbongan-100057227270490), No.29-1 Jalan Kristal Merah 2, Taman Limbongan Jaya, Limbongan, Malacca City, Malaysia Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr English Dub by Anindya Kenyo Larasti Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
21 Oct 2025
6. Sambal and the Portuguese Invasion
If Malaysia has a national condiment, it would be sambal. Yet as central as sambal is to Malaysia's culinary heritage, it wouldn't exist without Portugal. (http://Portugal.As) As (http://Portugal.As) Melaka's fortunes grew, the empire attracted the envy of Europe. By the 16th Century, Portuguese merchants began trading with Melaka, introducing new products like chillis and tomatoes. But this trade partnership wasn't enough and Portuguese rulers soon wanted more from Melaka. And so kicked off a long era of European colonialism in the region. Portugal left a significant mark on Malaysia's culture, best represented by the Kristang community. We hear from chef Melba Nunis (@chefmelbanunis) about her Eurasian roots and the uniqueness of Kristang cuisine. She shares her experience in keeping traditions alive by publishing a cookbook, which remains one of just two cookbooks specialising in Kristang cuisine. We also hear from community leader Martin Theseira, who grew up in the Portuguese settlement of Melaka. We learn about the Kristang creole language, a once thriving dialect that is now spoken by just 2,000 people. References and Resources A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Kristang Dictionary (https://openresearch-repository.anu.edu.au/server/api/core/bitstreams/b9f4de02-19d2-4b1d-b643-5db3308f9ef9/content) A Kristang Family Cookbook (2015), Melba Nunis Stories of Praya Lane (https://www.prayalane.com/about-this-project) The Melaka Portuguese Eurasian Heritage Arts and Culture Society (https://www.facebook.com/mpeheritagesociety/) The Majestic Melaka (https://www.majesticmalacca.com/pages/dining.html) - 188, Jln. Bunga Raya, Pengkalan Rama, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia Kumi Cafe (https://www.instagram.com/kumi.malaysia) - 21, Lorong Setiabistari 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia Quentins Eurasian Restaurant (https://www.quentins.com.sg/?srsltid=AfmBOopL39ZxeJptjFdVLOjcDvqZWCJCZ6BNzAJ_zQD2YMwbCR_Ew-r-) - 139 Ceylon Rd, Level 1 Eurasian Heritage Gallery, Singapore 429744 Noel Felix (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjw8sGs47Kw) - Kristang Musician Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
14 Oct 2025
5. Spices and the Rise of Melaka
Would you sacrifice an ox for the sake of cinnamon? Spices were once the global currency, sometimes worth more than gold. Myths around spices kept the prices high, fuelling spice empires around the world, including in Melaka. Modern Malaysia traces its origins to the dawn of the 15th Century. After the fall of Srivijaya, Melaka emerged as a fierce trade empire, connecting lucrative markets in India and China. Some of these foreign traders settled in Melaka, married local women and seeded a new cultural group - Peranakans. The Melaka Chetti community is one of 9 distinct Peranakan groups in Malaysia. We hear from Amuda Pillay and Nirmala Devi from the Melaka Chetti Heritage Asssociation (@melaka_chetti_kitchen) about life in Kampung Chetti and the importance of food. They share their experiences in keeping their culinary traditions alive through a cookbook, which was collaboratively written by the entire community. References and Resources A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya The Melaka Chetti Kitchen Cookbook (https://melakachetti.com/the-melaka-chetti-kitchen/) (2023), Julie Wong, David Neo, Melaka Chetti Heritage Association The Melaka Chetti Heritage Association (https://melakachetti.com/) (Persatuan Warisan Chetti Melaka Malaysia) The Science of Spice: Understand Flavour Connections and Revolutionize your Cooking (2018), Dr Stuart Farrimond Chetti Museum - Jalan Gajah Berang, Kampung Chetti, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Wen's Kitchen (https://www.facebook.com/p/Wens-Kitchen-100068803123527/) - 169, Jalan Tengkera, 75200 Melaka Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
7 Oct 2025
4. Belacan and the Forgotten Ancient Empires
Do you know Bella Chan? Fishing traditions gave rise to one of Malaysia's most important ingredients - belacan. Beyond cuisine though, belacan tells us a lot about Malaysia's seafaring history. 1,500 years ago, sea trading in South East Asia began to boom and from the spoils, the world's greatest maritime empire emerged - Srivijaya. Centred on the island of Sumatra, Srivijaya dominated trade in the region and extended its power to outposts on the Malay peninsular. Part of Srivijaya's success was its fierce naval force - the Orang Laut. Today, Orang Laut communities are at a crossroad. We hear from anthropologist Ilya Katrinnada (@katrinnada_ ) about the Orang Laut communities that straddle the strait between Malaysia and Singapore. We talk about the challenges that modernism presents, the dying cultural traditions and how art can bring these traditions back to life. References and Resources A History of Malaysia, 2016, Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya Photo Essay - Changing Tides, Staying Grounded (https://www.wasafiri.org/content/photo-essay-changing-tides-staying-grounded-by-ilya-katrinnada-and-jefree-salim/), Ilya Katrinnada and Jefree Salim Air (https://www.dramabox.org/eng/productions-air.html) - Drama Box Production The Orang Seletar - Rowing Across Changing Tides (https://biblioasia.nlb.gov.sg/vol-18/issue-1/apr-to-jun-2022/orang-seletar-changing-tides/), Ilya Katrinnada, Biblio Asia, National Library of Singapore Orang Laut SG (https://biblioasia.nlb.gov.sg/vol-18/issue-1/apr-to-jun-2022/orang-seletar-changing-tides/) Gerimis Art (https://www.gerimisart.com/) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
30 Sept 2025
3. Coconuts and the Land Before Borders
Can coconuts really travel along ocean currents? Maybe, but that's probably not how they spread around the world. We look at coconuts and Malaysia's ancient maritime history. The Malay and Indonesian archipelagos contain some 25,000 islands, home to communities that were once much more connected. These are the lands of Nusantara, a common ancestor of many South East Asian cultures. We hear from food historian Khir Johari (@khir19) about the Nusantaran spirit and how different South East Asian cuisines have a lot more in common than we think. And food writer Maria Stephanie (@ssshteffi) shares her efforts to revitalise foraging and cooking traditions that are fast-disappearing. References and Resources Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels Through the Archipelago (2021), Khir Johari Dialogues by Khir (https://www.instagram.com/dialoguesbykhir/) Dari Bumi Nusantara ke Piring Kita, 2024, Maria Stephanie Gunn BF, Baudouin L, Olsen KM (2011) Independent Origins of Cultivated Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in the Old World Tropics. (https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0021143) PLoS ONE 6(6): e21143. Contesting Malayness - Malay identity across Boundaries (2003), Timothy Barnard Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
23 Sept 2025
2. Durian and the Arrival of the First Peoples
Is durian really that controversial? Pop culture will have you believe that durian is equal parts maligned and celebrated. But there's so much more to the King of Fruits than its smell. We take a look at durian and it's connection to the ancient lands of Malaysia. Along the way, we meet a community that many Malaysians don't even know exist - the indigenous Orang Asli peoples. We hear from Emily Wong of Native Discovery (@discovernative) about the many different Orang Asli cultures of the Malay peninsula and what it means to be a good ally. And community leader Ronnie Bahari (@ronnie.ronjohn.bahari) shares his efforts to revitalise his own culture, which ironically involves old colonial textbooks. References and Resources Native Discovery (https://discovernative.org/) Persatuan Kebudayaan Dan Kesenian Orang Asal Perak (https://orangasalperak.org/) Gerimis Art (https://www.gerimisart.com/) Pagan Races of the Malay Peninsula (https://www.sabrizain.org/malaya/library/paganraces02.pdf)(1906), W.W. Skeat and C.O. Blagden Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited
23 Sept 2025
1. Satay and the Myth of Malaysian Cuisine
There's no such thing as Malaysian cuisine! In the very first episode, we shatter the myths surrounding Malaysia and its diverse food culture. Kicking things off with satay, we look at the mysterious origins of this classic Malaysian dish. It's a story that tells us a lot about what people know, and think they know, about Malaysia. Hear from food writer and cultural custodian Kalsom Taib, who is older than Malaysia itself. She shares her knowledge on Malaysia's rich culinary landscape and its many historical influences. Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip GIbson, this episode sets the scene for an exciting series that will delve into the rich histories, cultures and cuisines of a very misunderstood nation. Resources Malaysia's Culinary Heritage - The Best of Authentic Traditional Recipes (2021), Kalsom Taib Satay on Bayon Temple Relief - Alamy (https://www.alamy.com/ancient-khmer-bas-relief-sculpture-showing-satay-kebabs-being-grilled-on-a-fire-frieze-on-a-wall-of-bayon-temple-angkor-thom-siem-reap-cambodia-image362052711.html) Credits Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson Sound Design by Jack Barr Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited and supported by the Golden Chopsticks Scholarship, by the Oxford Cultural Collective Trust
29 Jul 2025
Satay? Okay! Trailer
Launching on 24 SEP! Join hosts Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson as they explore Malaysia’s most iconic foods and how they’ve been shaped by the past. They’ll be joined by food writers, chefs, academics and community leaders, who will share their perspectives on one of the world’s most misunderstood cuisines.
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