By, Amni Azman & Sabrina Noor
GOMBAK, January 28, 2025: Are you ready for the return of Gombak Food Festival 2.0 with a fresh concept and more flavours than ever before? Set at Riverside of International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Gombak Campus, the festival promises to tickle taste buds and warm hearts with its unique theme, “Tastetalgia: Where Tradition Meets Trends” from 3 to 4 June 2025.
The launch of the Seventh University in Action Symposium, a book titled, “Madani” edited by Sejahtera Centre Director, Prof. Dr. Zainal Abidin Sanusi and the soft launch of Gombak Food Fest 2.0 led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aida Mokhtar on Friday 30 May took off with the welcoming remarks by Rector of IIUM, Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, at the Main Hall of IIUM Cultural Centre (ICC) of IIUM Gombak. This proceeded with the officiating speech by Chief Minister of Selangor, Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari who spoke about the importance of knowledge and skills taught at universities to be impactful to surrounding communities.
The festival organised by Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) students in collaboration with Entrepreneurship Development Centre, Support Association for Parents of Special Needs Children (SUPPORT), Communication Students’ Association (COSA), and Jawatankuasa Pembangunan dan Keselamatan Kampung (JPKK), Kampung Kerdas. It’s a celebration of creativity and community.
The fest’s theme of “Tastetalgia” perfectly captures the heart of this festival. It’s a clever fusion of “taste” and “nostalgia,” highlighting how food can bring back warm memories while embracing modern flair.
Gombak Food Festival 2.0 is proud to feature a stellar list of special vendors, each bringing something unique to the table. The twelve vendors that will be featured include K-Link Care Center, Autism Café Project, Dyslexia Café, ARISMA, Tuns Anuar, My Qt Bites, Kak Ina Nasi Kukus Ayam Berempah, PPDK Gombak Setia, Sandwich Awesome Café, Brew & Blossom Café, and TEE’HA LICIOU’S.
One bite of a classic Murtabak Gombak and you’re instantly transported to a Ramadhan bazaar. Or try a vibrant, nasi kukus ayam berempah, a dish that is flavourful, wholesome, and sure to satisfy. This year’s lineup is curated to reflect not just diversity in food but also inclusivity in taste and preferences.
The Gombak Food Festival 2.0 shines not only through its flavours but also through its inclusive spirit, proudly featuring vendors like Autism Café Project, Dyslexia Café, K-Link Care Centre, and ARISMA. These organisations champion the participation of individuals with special needs, such as those with autism, dyslexia and other neurodiverse challenges, by offering them platforms for involvement in food-based entrepreneurship. Through hands-on experience in managing stalls, preparing meals, and interacting with customers, these special individuals gain confidence, practical skills, and a sense of independence. Their presence not only adds diversity to the festival’s offerings but also delivers a meaningful message: that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves a chance to grow, contribute, and be celebrated.
But Gombak Food Festival 2.0 isn’t just about what’s on your plate, it’s about community, creativity, and connection. The event doubles as a platform for integrated marketing communication students to showcase their talents, passion, and hard work in terms of promoting their clients’ foods. For many, this fest marks their first public business exposure, offering valuable real-world experience in customer service, branding, and teamwork.
Beyond the food, visitors can look forward to a range of exciting activities that make Gombak Food Festival 2.0 a truly immersive experience. From interactive booths where you can explore delicious food, to fun mini games perfect for all ages, there’s something for everyone.
The fest will also feature a special entrepreneurship sharing session that highlights inspiring stories, especially from individuals on the autism spectrum. There will also be the nasyeed performance, where beautiful and calming songs will be performed live. From the lively atmosphere to the impactful message behind it, every part of the experience is designed to engage your senses and touch your heart.
What makes Gombak Food Festival 2.0 more meaningful is how it aligns with IIUM’s mission to nurture holistic, entrepreneurial students. This event is not just an avenue for enjoyment, but it’s a real-life training ground. Students involved in the planning, marketing communication, logistics, and vendor management gain hands-on experience that strengthens their skills beyond the classroom.
Moreover, the support from IIUM’s official media partners, which are IIUMTV, IIUMToday, and IIUM.fm ensures wide coverage and encourages more participation across student bodies. Their efforts help amplify the voices of young entrepreneurs and spread the message of creativity, unity, and growth.
Whether you’re a foodie, a curious student, or just looking for something to do over the weekend, Gombak Food Festival 2.0 is the place to be. It’s more than an event because it’s a movement that brings people together through the universal language of food.
So, mark your calendar, tag your eating buddies, and don’t forget to show up with an empty stomach and an open heart. It’s not just about good food, but it’s also about supporting a meaningful cause, raising awareness, and celebrating inclusivity in the most delicious way possible. Refer to the official Instagram for more information: @gombak_food-festival_2.0. The soft launch of Gombak Food Festival 2.0 can be viewed here: [Opening Ceremony] – 7TH UNIVERSITY IN ACTION SYMPOSIUM***
