From the soft, gula Melaka-filled onde-onde to the colourful layers of kuih lapis, he sees in these traditional treats a striking form of design, where beauty and function come together in a most delicious way.
“We are celebrating Italian design and Malaysian design. Think about the design of Malaysian pastries, for instance, an onde-onde or a kuih lapis,” he said in conjunction with Italian Design Day 2026 recently.
“It is the perfect design: very appealing, functional and innovative.”
Langella hails from Naples, a city known for its rich artistic and architectural heritage. He believes the creativity behind local kuih deserves a closer look – not just as food, but as expressions of culture and craftsmanship.
“I love everything about Malaysian food. I love Peranakan food in particular, but I mean all Malaysian food, especially Malaysian pastries,” he said.
“There is something very interesting in how creativity is translated into sweetness.”
Since arriving in Malaysia in September, Langella has been taking in more than just the food. What stands out most, he says, are the people.
“The people of Malaysia are by far the most important asset this country can rely on,” he said.
“In six months, I have never met someone who had nothing to say. Every person I met had something to teach me, and conversations with Malaysians are always engaging and enriching.”
That sense of exchange, he believes, extends naturally into areas like design, culture and business.
Malaysia and Italy have enjoyed diplomatic ties since 1957, with cooperation spanning trade, culture, education and industry. Italian companies ranging from engineering firms to global manufacturers have a presence here, reflecting a steady and growing partnership.
Recent years have seen continued trade momentum, alongside high-level visits that signal both countries’ commitment to strengthening ties further.
But for Langella, it is often the smaller, everyday encounters that leave the deepest impression – whether it is a conversation with a stranger, or a comforting bite of kuih.