Record set: Giant sticky rice and coconut milk map of Vietnam unveiled in Can Tho

The record-setting creation measured 2 meters wide, 2.6 meters long, and 10.3 centimeters thick, weighing between 550 and 600 kilograms. Fashioned entirely from sticky rice and coconut milk, the giant map faithfully reproduced the full shape of Vietnam's territory in a striking and inventive display.

The work was produced by 103 artisans and professional chefs from across the Mekong Delta region, a figure chosen to symbolize Can Tho's 103 communes and wards. Organized under the direction of Can Tho's Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with coconut brand Vietcoco and the Mekong Delta Professional Chefs Association, the event drew thousands of residents, artisans, chefs, and both domestic and international tourists.

Sam Long Giang, Deputy Director of Can Tho's Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the record carries profound significance, blending culinary artistry with folk culture heritage. He noted that it contributes to honoring the value of traditional Vietnamese cuisine broadly, and Southern Vietnamese food culture in particular.

"The achievement also stands as clear testimony to the creativity, skill, and dedication of our artisans and chefs - people who are helping to elevate Vietnamese culinary culture on the world stage," he added.

Nguyen Thi Ly, Vice Chairwoman of the Mekong Delta Professional Chefs Association (MPC) and a representative of the team behind the creation, described the map as an expression of the spirit of "daring to think, daring to act, daring to create, and daring to pursue new achievements", a spirit she said defines the chefs of the Mekong Delta and Can Tho, as they work to bring Vietnamese culture to wider international audiences in an era of global integration.

Beyond the record-setting centerpiece, the Southern Folk Cake Festival, running from April 26 through May 1, offers visitors the chance to sample hundreds of traditional cakes and sweets from regions across the country, alongside performances of acoustic music and traditional Vietnamese performing arts.