[23] It is a variant of sega wuduk or rice cooked in coconut milk,[24] but with the addition of turmeric which creates yellowish colour, thus the name punar is synonym with kuning in Javanese which means "yellow".

[2] Nasi kuning as cone-shaped tumpeng is essential in Javanese selamatan rituals, especially among traditional Kejawen community as offerings or consumed as communal meals.

The yellow-coloured rice is perceived to look like a pile of gold,[28] so it is often served on festive occasions, including parties, housewarmings, welcoming guests, and opening ceremonies, as a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, wealth, and dignity.

[31] In addition to its prominent role in Indonesian culinary traditions, nasi kuning also holds considerable ceremonial and cultural significance in Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore, particularly among the Malay community.

Pulut kuning is traditionally featured in religious ceremonies, festive occasions and social gatherings, regarded as a symbol of prosperity, good fortune and spiritual well-being.

The dish holds significant cultural value, particularly in the context of the full moon celebration, a traditional ritual marking the completion of a baby’s first month.

[33] While nasi kunyit is deeply embedded in Peranakan cultural practices, it has been widely embraced by the broader ethnic Chinese population in Malaysia.

It is common to serve nasi kuning with kerupuk udang (shrimp cracker) or emping chips and a decoratively cut cucumber and tomato.