Eating is not just for the body, it is for the soul.

For refugees who land on Malaysian shores, it is also a means of comfort amidst uncertainty, author Haris Cousiddis said.

"Eating is as much a social activity as it is a human need. It is a way to forget daily uncertainties," she said at the book launch of 'A Taste From Home' at the UNHCR headquarters last night.

'A Taste From Home' is a compilation of recipes by refugees in Malaysia.

But for Cousiddis ( photo ), it is also a way to show the human face of the refugee issue.

"They don't just share recipes, but their stories, customs and identities...

"Through the food, they are able to maintain pride and find a connection to home," she said.

A trained cook and photographer, Cousiddis said the 12-month project is a tribute to the strength of the community of refugees, now numbering 153,880 in Malaysia.

She hopes the recipes could also serve as a bridge between the refugee community and Malaysian society.

UNHCR representative Richard Towle said this is fitting in Malaysia, where food plays an integral role in community.

"In New Zealand where I am from we ask people how they our mountains and rugby, but here you ask, 'How do you like our food?'

"This country knows better than anywhere about identity and origins and how food connects to that," he said.

He says everyday the agency serves up to 1,000 refugees who show up at its doorstep seeking assistance, and this book tells of the story of their survival.

Last connection

In many ways, he said, food is the refugees' last connection to their culture and identity.

"The preparation of food is a reminder of that they have lost.

"There is a bitterness to it and a sweetness, that life goes on. Grassroots still grow in the ground," he said.

Beyond that, he said, the book is also about the society in which the refugees now live in and how they fulfil their obligations to assist those in need.

The book launch was held also with a charity food fair featuring food prepared by refugees from Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Myanmar.

'A Taste From Home' can be purchased at RM60 per copy through UNHCR.

All proceeds go to emergency welfare assistance of refugees in Malaysia.

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