JOINT FAO/WHO FOOD STANDARDS PROGRAMME Codex …faris.moh.gov.my/ccfo/download/information_for_participants.pdf · Melaka is known for her Baba Nyonya (Peranakan) culture - referring

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JOINT FAO/WHO FOOD STANDARDS PROGRAMME

Codex Committee on Fats and Oils Twenty-Fourth Session

9-13 February 2015 Melaka, Malaysia

MEETING INFORMATION

1. DATE AND VENUE Date : 9 -13 February 2015 Venue : HOTEL EQUATORIAL MELAKA Bandar Hilir 75000 Melaka Malaysia Tel: +60 6 282 8333 Fax: +60 6 282 9333 Email: [email protected] Web: www.equatorial.com/mel/ Melaka is located on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Melaka, about 147 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur between the states of Negeri Sembilan and Johor. It covers an area of 1,638 sq. metres and is divided into three (3) region namely Alor Gajah, Central Melaka and Jasin. This historical city centre has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 7 July 2008.

2. GETTING THERE The meeting venue is merely a 90 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Please be advised that transportation will not be provided. Participants are to arrange their own transport to the meeting venue. By Air The nearest airport from Melaka is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Participants need to take public transport from KLIA to Melaka. By Road If you are in West Malaysia, the best way to travel to Melaka is by road. Travelling down south via the North-South Highway from the KLIA takes only a mere 90 minutes. If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur, the journey is about 2 hours. From Johor Bahru heading north, it is only 2 1/2 hours away. You will also get to enjoy the greeneries of oil palm plantation and some evergreen tropical landscape along the North-South

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Expressway. There are many public rest areas, stop-overs, petrol kiosks and strategic view points along the highway so the journey will be quite pleasant if one needs to have a rest from the long distance driving. By Rail Melaka Town is not served by any railway lines. The nearest railway station is at Pulau Sebang (Tampin) in the Alor Gajah district about 30 km (18 miles) away. The station is on the main Kuala Lumpur-Johor Bahru line and served by all trains.

3. REGISTRATION

The participants of the meeting should provide the information (names, official titles and addresses) through the online registration system by accessing the following link, latest by 9 January 2015: http://www.codexalimentarius.org/login Login and password for the online registration have been provided to all Codex Contact Point and Contact Point of Observers Organizations. If the login and password have not been received, please contact: [email protected] In case of technical difficulty, the registration may also be sent directly to the CCFO Secretariat ([email protected]) and copy to: [email protected] Registration will be conducted at Foyer I, Melaka Ballroom, Equatorial Melaka as follows:

Sunday, 8 February 2015 1430 – 1700 hours

Monday, 9 February 2015 0745 – 0830 hours Upon receipt of the completed registration form, a badge will be prepared and given to the participant. Participants are kindly requested to wear their name badges during the meeting.

4. INTERPRETATION

Interpretation will be provided in three (3) languages; English, French and Spanish during the opening and plenary sessions. The documents produced during the meeting will be translated and distributed in these three (3) languages.

5. WORKING DOCUMENTS

Working documents will be uploaded onto the Codex website: www.codexalimentarius.net/. Participants are kindly requested to bring with them to the meeting all documents which have been distributed as the documents will not be distributed during the meeting. Conference Room Documents (CRD) will be available on the document desk at the foyer of the meeting hall.

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6. RECEPTION

A reception for all delegates and observers is scheduled on 9 February 2015 at 2000 hours.

7. INQUIRY DESK

During the meeting, an Inquiry Desk will be located in front of the meeting room to provide general information on the meeting and assistance to the delegates and observers.

8. ACCOMODATION Hotel Equatorial Melaka One of the oldest and most historical cities in Malaysia, Melaka was once one of the busiest seaports and trading posts in Asia. It is a living museum and melting pot of Portugese, Dutch, British, Indian, Chinese, Arabic and Malay cultures, traditions and cuisine. In fact the dialect the Portugese community speaks here is an older dialect then the one spoken in Portugal today. Located in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is Hotel Equatorial Melaka. Its 476 rooms are within walking distance of centuries-old buildings and forts and modern shopping malls. Its six delightful dining options all offer delicious local and international fare with generous buffets to whet your appetite. A must try is the Seri Nyonya Peranakan Restaurant serving authentic Peranakan dishes. Peranakan is the local term given to Straits-born-Chinese who have adopted a lot of the Malay ways including the language and cooking. The organizer has made arrangement with the Hotel Equatorial Melaka for CCFO delegates. CCFO Delegates will receive exclusive rate:

Equator Club Room RM412.00nett per room per night (single) RM492.00nett per room per night (twin sharing)

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Premier Room RM372.00nett per room per night (single) RM452.00nett per room per night (twin sharing)

Deluxe Room RM 302.00 nett per room per night (single) RM 382.00 nett per room per night (twin sharing)

To book the room, delegates should complete a room reservation form that can be found at: http://ccfo.moh.gov.my

HOTEL NEARBY HOTEL EQUATORIAL MELAKA

No Hotel Website Contact Walking distance time

1 Hatten Hotel Melaka www.hattenhotel.com +606 - 286 9696

4 min

2 Hallmark Crown Hotel

http://www.hotelhallmark.com +606 - 281-8555 6 min

3 Mahkota Hotel Melaka

www.mahkotahotel.com.my +606 - 281 2828 12 min

4 Holiday Inn Hotel Melaka

www.holidayinn.com.my +606 - 285 9000 16 min

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9. CORRESPONDENCE

All correspondence concerning the meeting should be addressed to:

Malaysian Secretariat for CCFO Food Safety and Quality Division Ministry of Health Malaysia Level 3, Block E7, Parcel E Federal Government Administrative Centre 62590 PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA Phone : +603-8885 0797 Fax : +603-8885 0790 Email : [email protected] Website: http://ccfo.moh.gov.my

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GENERAL INFORMATION MALAYSIA

To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia - a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. Our multiculturalism has made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise and home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very relaxed, warm and friendly. Geographically, Malaysia is almost as diverse as its culture. 11 states and 2 federal territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) form Peninsular Malaysia which is separated by the South China Sea from East Malaysia which includes the 2 states (Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo) and a third federal territory, the island of Labuan. One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts which further add to this theme of ‘diversity’. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts while five-star hotels sit just metres away from ancient reefs. Rugged mountains reach dramatically for the sky while their rainforest-clad slopes sweep down to floodplains teeming with forest life. Cool highland hideaways roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

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MELAKA

Melaka is one Malaysia’s most famous resort destinations. It is a state in Peninsular Malaysia which is rich in history and culture. Its strategic position at the narrowest part of the Straits of Melaka made as one of the most important stopover post for ships travelling from east to west. The end of the 14th century saw Melaka grow into a rich trading post and kingdom under the Melaka Sultanate, gaining a name in the maritime world. Conquered and administered by the Portuguese in 1511, the Dutch in 1641, and the British in 1824, Melaka is a centre of many diverse cultures, a unique melting pot of races. Melaka has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 7 July 2008. Today, the architecture of the old town of Melaka reflects her rich historical past. A visit to the city of Melaka, will take you through the history of the place. The urban landscape is a mix old and new architecture - Dutch, Portuguese, British and Malaysian. As you walk round Melaka city, stroll along Jonker Walk (or now called Jalan Hang Jebat), it is a place to hunt for antiques and interesting collectables. There is an astounding mix of races, cultures and religion. Melaka is known for her Baba Nyonya (Peranakan) culture - referring to the culture of the Baba community, who ancestors are a mix of mainly Malay and Chinese parentage. (This mix of Malay and Chinese cultural practices is unique to Melaka, Penang and Singapore).

1. CLIMATE

Malaysia has a tropical climate and the weather is warm all year round. Temperatures

range from 21C to 32C and the annual rainfall varies from 2,000 mm to 2,500 mm.

2. PEOPLE AND CULTURE Endowed with a diversity of cultures, Malaysia offers a ‘truly Asian experience’. Discover the delightful fusion of three of Asia’s oldest civilization – Malay, Chinese and Indian. A potpourri enriched with the indigenous traditions of the Kadazan Dusuns, Ibans and other ethnic communities of Sabah and Sarawak. Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national

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language but English is widely spoken. Malaysians also speak various languages and dialects. When visiting Malaysia, visitors should observe local customs and practices. Some common courtesies and customs are as follows:

Although handshakes generally suffice for both men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge an introduction to a gentleman with a nod of her head and smile. The traditional Malay greeting or salam resembles a handshakes with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend’s outstretched hands, then brings his hands to his chest.

It is polite to call before visiting a home.

Shoes must always be removed when entering a home.

Drinks are generally offered to guests. It would be polite to accept.

The right hand is always used when eating with one’s hand or when giving and receiving objects.

The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hands, with the four fingers folded under, is the preferred usage.

Shoes must be removed when entering places of worship such as mosque and temples. Mosques provide robes and scarves for female visitors. Taking photographs at places of worship is usually permitted but always ask for permission first.

The country’s large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.

3. TIME Eight (8) hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.

4. ELECTRICITY Voltage is 220 – 240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Malaysia uses standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.

5. CURRENCY

The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit, which is indicated as RM. Foreign currencies can be converted at banks and money changers. The exchange rate is approximately at RM 3.30 to USD 1.00. All travellers, both residents and non-residents, are required to complete the Traveller’s Declaration Form (TDF). The TDF has a blue section for residents and white section for non-residents.

Non-residents are required to declare the exact amount of foreign currency carried when they enter or leave the country only if the amount exceeds the equivalent of USD 2,500.00. Banking Hours:

Most states : Mon-Fri: 9.30am – 4.pm Sun : Closed Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu &

Johor : Sun – Wed: 9.30am – 4.00pm Thur : 9.30am – 12.00noon Fri : Closed.

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6. VISA REQUIREMENT

Visitors must be in possession of a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six (6) months beyond the intended visiting period. Citizens of most countries do not require visas for social or business visits. For further information, please visit or call the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or visit the following websites: http://www.kln.gov.my/ http://www.kln.gov.my/web/guest/requirement-for-foreigner

7. INSURANCE & HEALTH

Visitors are advised to obtain adequate insurance cover before travelling to Malaysia. Malaysia is free of most contagious diseases. Cholera vaccination is not required for travelers entering Malaysia. Visitors arriving from Yellow Fever Endemic Zones and other affected areas as in Appendix 1 are required to present International Health Certificates showing Yellow Fever vaccination. This regulation does not apply to children below the age of one. Do check on health regulations with your nearest Malaysia diplomatic mission.

8. EMERGENCIES

Operator Assisted Calls (Domestic & International) 101 Directory Enquiry Service 103 Emergency 999 Tourist Police (Bandar Hilir) 06-2845222 General Hospital 06-2892344 Mahkota Medical Centre (Private Hospital) 06-285 2991

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9. PLACES OF INTEREST a) FORT A’ FAMOSA

The Portuguese colonised Melaka from 1511 to 1641. The first thing they did was to build a fort overlooking the river, calling it A'Famosa. As Melaka was the centre of struggles between super powers of the time, and suffered the constant threat of attack, the A'Famosa fort was critical in Portugal maintaining its colonial foothold in the Far East. Within the fort walls were housing and food stores, a castle, a meeting room for the Portuguese Council and five churches. A seven-month attack by the Dutch just about destroyed the entire fortress, leaving only the entrance made and the structure of a church at the top of the hill. Go for a stroll up St. Paul's Hill on a cool late afternoon and wander among the majestic trees and historical remnants. Here, you can almost imagine the glories and miseries of the besieged lives the Portuguese would have led right here all those years ago. b) Stadthuys

Built in 1650 as the official residence of the Dutch Governor and his officers, The Stadthuys is a fine example of Dutch architecture of that period. It is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. An outstanding example of colonial Dutch architecture, this edifice now houses the History Museum and Ethnography Museum. On display are traditional bridal costumes and relics from Melaka's over 400-year history. Both museums are well-laid out and offer detailed explanation of how these costumes and relics played their part in Melaka's glorious past.

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c) Jonker Walk (Jalan Hang Jebat)

A definite haven for antique collectors and bargain hunters. Authentic artifacts and relics, some dating as far back as 300 years, can be found among a host of interesting collectibles, each with its own history and mystery. Jalan Hang Jebat, formerly known as Jonker Street, is known worldwide among serious antique collectors as one of the best places to hunt and bargain for antiques. Recently, a new wave of cafes and craft shops have sprouted on this street, lending it a cultured air of old-meets-new. d) Portuguese Square

This square is also known as 'Mini Lisbon'. Located within the Portuguese Settlement, the square is the centre of Portuguese culture in Melaka and in Malaysia. The small kampung, or village, around the square is the heart of Melaka's Eurasian community, descended from marriages that took place between colonial Portuguese and Malays some 400 years ago. There are occasional performances of Portuguese dances and music. There is a bulletin board at the square that lists upcoming cultural events. But even on days when there is no performance, the square is a delightful place to go to for a meal and a drink and view the sunset over the Straits of Melaka.

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e) Kampung Hulu Mosque

The mosque, built in 1728 during the Dutch Occupancy, is the oldest mosque in the country. Its unique architectural style is a unique blend of Sumatran, Hindu and Western architecture. All of the building's original wooden structures except the four main pillars and the roof structure were replaced with concrete. Within the mosque compound, you can find the grave of Sayyid Abdullah Al-Haddad, a famous religious teacher, whom many regarded as a "Wali" (Saint). A good way to see the Kampung Hulu Mosque is to include it as part of your walking tour of nearby Jonker Street. The Mosque is set just one street back from the famous street. f) Melaka River Cruise

The river was the main artery of trade for Melaka in its heyday when it was bustling with traders from all around the world. Some buildings from that era still stand majestically by the river, which is also lined by old villages, or kampungs, and modern day buildings. The 45-minute cruise is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary. And, for just RM8, it's a good bargain. See parts of historical Melaka, get a history lesson for next to nothing, and never break a sweat.

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g) Menara Taming Sari

Witness a host of interesting and historical sights of Melaka from a height of 80 metres of Menara Taming Sari. Rest assured with the beauty of the vast scenic Melaka straits and the fast development of Melaka, your visit will be an unforgettable and memorable one. Menara Taming Sari which located at Jalan Merdeka, Banda Hilir, Melaka was opened on 18 April 2008. The 110 metre viewing tower was designed based on the legendary Taming Sari Keris. It will be the 1st tower in the country to have a fully revolving structure. The air-conditioned viewing cabin will be able to accommodate 66 people at one time. h) Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

The 'Straits Chinese', also called the Baba and Nyonya, are Chinese of noble descent who have adopted much of the Malay culture into theirs. This has been a gradual process lasting over 400 years since the great Chinese explorer Admiral Cheng Ho first brought Chinese settlers to Melaka. Over the centuries, the Baba Nyonya have developed a distinct and highly interesting culture that is unique to Malaysia's west coast, particularly Melaka. The public can now view the historical artefacts unique to this heritage at a captivating private museum run by the Babas and Nyonyas of Melaka. Within the walls of this heritage building, you can learn everything there is to know about this unique culture. The Heritage Museum offers guided tours (by appointment), research facilities and audio visuals.

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i) Melaka Zoo

Melaka Zoo is situated at Ayer Keroh, approximately 13 kilometres from downtown Melaka. It is the second largest zoo in Malaysia. The zoo's total area is approximately 54 acres. It has in its possession at least 1,200 animals from more than 200 species. Melaka Zoo opened its door to the public in 1963. The major attractions of Melaka Zoo are the Malayan Gaur, Serow and the Malayan Tiger. In line with the current zoo development, Melaka Zoo adopted an open concept and maintains the natural green environment. Melaka Zoos role is as a centre for wildlife research, conservation breeding, zoo education center and a popular tourist destination. j) Taman Mini Malaysia & Mini ASEAN

The Taman Mini Malaysia cultural park is located a few kilometres outside of Melaka, near the town of Ayer Keroh. If you have an interest in traditional architecture and ways of life, this is a great place to go exploring. Each of the homes represents the architectural style of the 13 states in Malaysia and is furnished with various items, arts and crafts which depict the culture of each state. Inside each house, you can find a range of genuine handicrafts originating from each state or county. The life-like figures 'inhabiting' each charming home on stilts are garbed in their respective traditional costumes. Other attractions in the park include weekly cultural shows and traditional games. Basically, this is an opportunity to see all Malaysian architecture and heritage in a short all-encompassing outing. And it's a nice break from the hustle and bustle of nearby urban Melaka.

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k) Culture Museum Park

Research and excavation works at Taman Muzium Budaya (Culture Museum Park) started 1 June till 30 June, 2010. The area is located at Jalan Kota near Taman Muzium Budaya (in front of the Melaka Malay Sultanate Palace). Based on map drawings made by the Dutch, the area may have remnants of a fort wall jutting towards Santiago gate and Hendrieta Lousia bastion. Excavations have unearthed the foundation of the Melaka fort wall from Santiago gate, Hendrieta Louisa bastion as well as corner wall of the bastion. Other artefacts were discovered at this site including Chinese porcelain fragments (from Ming and Ching Dynasties), stoneware, Dutch stones, urns, animal bones, steel and others.

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APPENDIX 1

A) Africa Angola Guinea Bissau Benin Equatorial Guinea Burkina Faso Kenya Burundi Liberia Cameroon Mali Central Africa Republic Mauritania Chad Niger Republic of Congo Nigeria Democratic Republic of Congo Rwanda Cote d’Ivoire Senegal Ethiopia Sierra Leone Gabon Sudan Gambia Togo Ghana Uganda Guinea

B) South & Central America Argentina Paraguay Bolivia Panama Brazil Peru Colombia Suriname Ecuador Trinidad & Tobago French Guiana Venezuela Guyana

Note: The list of Yellow fever endemic countries will be regularly updated by Ministry of Health Malaysia regularly based on WHO list Yellow fever vaccination requirement

A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all visitors or delegates (Malaysians and Foreigners) coming from or going to/through Yellow fever endemic countries (As stated above in WHO list).

Travellers or delegates without a valid Yellow fever vaccination certificate shall be quarantined upon arrival in Malaysia for a period not exceeding 6 days.

The period of validity of an international certificate of vaccination against Yellow fever is 10 years, beginning 10 days after the date of vaccination.

If a person is revaccinated before the end of this period, the validity is extended for a further 10 years from the date of vaccination.

If the revaccination is recorded on a new certificate, travellers or delegates are advised to retain the old certificate for 10 days until the new certificate becomes valid.