Malaysia to Hold Astronaut 'Idol'-type Competition

This isn't the first time I have mentioned the Malaysian Space Program or their search for an astronaut. This is simply an update on that program. Looks like they're getting down to the final few and are looking to make the short-list.
According to a story at Space.com they have whittled the original 11,275 candidates down to just 854, of whom 146 are women.

These hundreds will endure a rigorous series of physical fitness tests until their numbers have been reduced to 10 or less. Those few will have their complete biography, statistics, et. al, posted on the Web for citizens of Malaysia to choose from. The two most popular will be sent to Russia in January where they will train for their mission to International Space Station in 2007.

By far the very best thing about the Malaysian Space Program is their desire to loft national delicacies into Space. Brilliant!
What could be better than helping to make the place feel more---human?
Technology is nice, not to mention necessary, when you're talking about human exploration of Space, but let's not forget why we are doing it: To spread our culture, the human experience, as far and wide as we possibly can.

And for Malaysians, culture begins with a good meal of "roti canai" (pronounced chen-ai), unleavened lightly fried bread and ``teh tarik,'' or heavily-sweetened milky tea...all of which is currently being developed for consumption aboard ISS. I don't know what that stuff is but it has to taste better than the paste filled tubes the station occupants currently have to choose from.

On behalf of all the astronauts let me say-- Three cheers for Malaysia! Bring on the food!!