KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- The High Commission of Malaysia in Namibia hosted a lively 61st Malaysia Day celebration in Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, on Monday for over 120 guests including government officials, diplomats, and businessmen.
Also present at the celebration was Namibia’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Jennely Matundu.
Apart from the flag-raising ceremony, guests were treated to musical performances, including a violinist playing Malaysian patriotic songs, and were feted to a variety of Malaysian cuisines.
Acting High Commissioner of Malaysia to Namibia, Datuk Dr Mohamad Rameez Yahaya, in his speech, highlighted this year’s National Day and Malaysia Day theme "Jiwa Merdeka" (Spirit of Independence).
"Jiwa Merdeka" reflects the freedom of the people from negative elements and promotes patriotic spirit through aspects of thought, social and economic integration, ultimately contributing to a strong, harmonious, and progressive unity among the people," he said.
Mohamad Rameez also touched on the bilateral relations between Malaysia and Namibia, which have been further strengthened through the establishment of resident diplomatic missions in both nations since 1995.
"Bilateral relations between Malaysia and Namibia existed before 1990, with Malaysia providing strong political support to Namibia during its struggle for independence. After Namibia’s independence in 1990, the relations were further strengthened by the close political relations, particularly in the context of South-South cooperation.
"Since the establishment of the diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Namibia in 1990, bilateral cooperation between both nations has progressed steadily. Economic cooperation and integration have been among the major areas in Malaysia-Namibia cooperation. Both countries also work closely at various multilateral fora."
Mohamad Rameez also mentioned that Malaysian government has pledged NAD710,000 (about RM172,581) under the Tabung Bantuan Bencana Wisma Putra to assist Namibia in dealing with serious drought issues.
-- BERNAMA
