ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): The High Commission of Malaysia in Islamabad hosted a grand reception to commemorate Malaysia’s 69th National Day . The event successfully brought together senior Pakistani government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, media personnel, Friends of Malaysia, and the local Malaysian diaspora.
The reception was hosted by H.E. Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and To’ Puan Amelia Amani Lee Abdullah. H.E. Rana Tanveer Hussain, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Also in attendance were H.E. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Federal Minister for Board of Investment, alongside other senior Pakistani officials and all ASEAN Heads of Mission in Islamabad.
Dato’ Mohammad Azhar opened his welcoming remarks by leading fellow Malaysians in chanting “Merdeka!” seven times, echoing the historic clarion call of independence and national unity. He then reflected on Malaysia’s journey since attaining independence on 31 August 1957 and the subsequent formation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963. He highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between Malaysia and Pakistan, recalling Pakistan’s valuable support during Malaysia’s formative years and acknowledging the vibrant Pakistani community that continues to contribute to Malaysia’s economy and society today.
The High Commissioner underscored the positive momentum in bilateral ties since the elevation of Malaysia-Pakistan relations to a Strategic Partnership in 2019. Noting that bilateral trade reached approximately USD 1.6 billion last year, he expressed optimism that this figure would continue to grow, driven by strong institutional ties and Pakistan’s dynamic, youthful population.
Education and tourism were also highlighted as key pillars of cooperation. With around 5,000 Pakistani students currently studying in Malaysia, Dato’ Mohammad Azhar expressed his hope to see further two-way educational exchanges. He also invited attendees to experience Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage firsthand at the “Visit Malaysia 2026: Tourism and Gastronomy Festival,” held from 17 to 23 September 2026 at the Serena Hotel’s Zamana Restaurant. Concluding his address, the High Commissioner extended his warmest regards, wishing good health and happiness to the President, and peace, progress, and prosperity to the Government and people of Pakistan.In his address, H.E. Rana Tanveer Hussain conveyed warm congratulations to the Government and people of Malaysia. He commended Malaysia’s remarkable national development, praising its successful pursuit of industrialization, technological advancement, and human capital investment while maintaining its cultural diversity and social values.
The Guest of Honour reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the two nations and encouraged greater Malaysian investment in Pakistan across sectors such as agriculture, information technology, mining, energy, and tourism.
On the international front, the Federal Minister lauded Malaysia’s constructive geopolitical role, particularly its advocacy for the Palestinian people and humanitarian efforts in Gaza, and expressed profound appreciation for Malaysia’s continued support of Pakistan’s aspiration to become a full Dialogue Partner of ASEAN. Following the formal addresses, the official programme culminated in a ceremonial cake[1]cutting to mark the 69th National Day, accompanied by a photo session with the Guest of Honour and attending Heads of Mission.
The celebration was also enriched by vibrant cultural performances from Kencana Pawana, a traditional dance troupe specially flown in from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA). Guests were also treated to video presentations reflecting on Malaysia’s journey to independence, highlights from the 2026 National Day Parade in Putrajaya, promotional showcases for Visit Malaysia 2026, and informative features promoting Malaysia as a premier destination for Pakistani students pursuing higher education.
Adding an interactive element to the evening, Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) and representatives from eleven Malaysian universities hosted information booths. This allowed guests to engage directly with academic representatives and explore Malaysia’s world-class study opportunities. The festive evening successfully showcased Malaysia’s culture, education, and hospitality, reflecting a shared commitment to further strengthening the robust bilateral relations between Malaysia and Pakistan.
