In Malaysia, the hours between lunch and dinner hold a special place. Known as minum petang, or afternoon tea, this tradition turns a short break in the day into a time to pause, share food, and enjoy the warmth of conversation. A comforting cup of BOH tea often completes the table, bringing flavour and familiarity to the ritual.
Afternoon Tea and Its Origins
The custom of afternoon tea first emerged among the wealthy classes in England during the 1840s. Anna Maria Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, is often credited with turning afternoon tea into a late afternoon meal during her visits to Belvoir Castle. Some accounts, however, suggest that the tradition of drinking tea in England began earlier, when Catherine of Braganza, wife of King Charles II, introduced the practice to the royal court upon her arrival from Portugal in 1662.
By the late 19th century, afternoon tea had evolved into the form we recognise today. No longer limited to the upper classes, it spread across English society, embraced by both the aristocracy and the middle class. From there, the idea travelled across cultures and continents, eventually taking root in Malaysia.
Minum Petang in Malaysia
In Malaysia, afternoon tea transformed into something uniquely local. While tea remains central, the food served alongside it reflects the nation’s diverse heritage. Instead of scones and finger sandwiches alone, the table often includes:
- Curry puffs filled with spiced potatoes, chicken, or sardines
- Kuih-muih, local cakes or desserts made with coconut milk, pandan, and glutinous rice
- Pisang goreng, banana fritters served hot and crispy
- Biscuits or light sandwiches, recalling the English tradition
This combination of East and West shows how Malaysians have reinterpreted afternoon tea, blending local flavours with inherited customs. A pot of BOH Cameron Highlands Teabag 100s, known for its brisk and robust character, often ties these foods together, adding fragrance and balance to the spread. For those who prefer a floral touch, BOH Potbag Rose Tea (40s) provides a delicate blend of black tea and rose petals, perfect for light kuih and pastries.
A Moment of Connection
Minum petang is a tradition that unites people through shared food, drink, and conversation. Families sit down at home with a tray of kuih and a pot of tea, neighbours drop by for a chat over biscuits, and colleagues take a short pause during the workday with a quick sachet of BOH Teh Tarik Kurang Manis – Original (12s). The practice encourages conversation, strengthens relationships, and provides a gentle rhythm to daily life.
Tea at the Heart of It All
At the centre of minum petang is always the drink. For some, it is a frothy cup of teh tarik, pulled to perfection. For others, it is a pot of bold highland black tea, steeped carefully and served warm. Herbal infusions and lighter blends also find their place on the table. BOH’s wide range of teas, from classic BOH Cameronian Gold Blend Teabag Sachet (60’s) to Potbag Rose Tea, make it easy to find the right cup for the moment.
A Tradition That Endures
Even as modern life grows busier, the custom of minum petang remains. It is a reminder to slow down, to connect with others, and to appreciate the small pleasures of life. Rooted in history yet shaped by Malaysian culture, minum petang continues to embody the values of hospitality, balance, and community.
So when the afternoon sun softens, take a moment for minum petang. Pour a cup of BOH tea, share a plate of light bites, and enjoy the comfort of a tradition that has stood the test of time.
References: https://ms.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minum_petang
If you are in the mood for some tea check out some of our selection below, or click here to explore our wider selection of teas:
