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Exploring International Students' Perceptions of Malaysian Gastronomy: A Qualitative Study

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Objectives of this study is to explore international students' perceptions towards Malaysian food. This review is aimed at gaining a better understanding on the view about Malaysian food by international students. Qualitative method was employed for this study in conducting research of international students at one of the private universities in Malaysia. The results taken from deep interviews based on students' opinions of Malaysian cuisine, the pattern in food selection involving types of Malaysian foods taken and the food acceptance that led to any when making decision about consuming the food. The findings indicate that Malaysian cuisine is good, and international students had a beneficial impact on local food acceptability. Their pleasant views towards Malaysian food were thus assumed to be related to the value of culinary tourism benefits in a similar way, with authenticity motivated closely followed by originality and diversity. The findings could thus offer a local menu that can be maintained to meet the expectations of international students who want nothing but authentic and traditional Malaysian meals. For future research, researchers propose replicating the methodology with a larger sample size and other participant groups in private and public universities.
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