PETALING JAYA, Dec. 28 -- Chinese Muslim food is no longer unfamiliar to Malaysians.

Over the past few years, hand-pulled noodles, halal hotpot and north-west Chinese dishes have found steady followings in the Klang Valley, particularly among Muslim diners seeking something different yet familiar.

At the 3rd Chinese Muslim Food & Tourism Festival at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, the popularity was evident early.

At Zenyishun stall, a queue formed within 30 minutes of opening as customers watched chefs pull noodles by hand and cook each order on the spot. One chef, speaking through a phone translation app, said Malaysians are especially fond of spicy noodle dishes.

Running from December 25 to January 4, the festival brings together about 55...