Acting Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Nur Ezira binti Mahadi called on Malaysians to maintain the good name and image of the country by respecting the local culture and law and to continue the warm and close relationship with the local community. She said this during a flag hoisting ceremony to mark Malaysia’s 67th Independence Day at the high commission building at the Diplomatic Enclave, Jalan Kebangsaan yesterday.
Themed ‘Malaysia Madani, Jiwa Merdeka’, the ceremony saw the participation of over 200 Malaysians working and residing in the Sultanate.
The event began with the hoisting of the Jalur Gemilang accompanied by the singing of the national anthem followed by two patriotic songs – Jalur Gemilang and Madani Jiwa Merdeka. It proceeded with the reading of the oath, Rukun Negara, and remarks from the acting high commissioner.
She also spoke on the bilateral ties between Brunei and Malaysia, noting that the two countries have had special relations and excellent cooperation in various fields since 1984.
“Both continue to flourish, supported by Islamic and Malay culture values, the common core and as close neighbours, the intimacy and ties stand out with the frequency of visits and meetings at various levels, and the working visit by the Malaysian premier recently,” said the acting high commissioner.
She also highlighted the bilateral trade between the two countries, which has expanded in the past several years to almost MYR10 billion last year.
“I personally am proud of the Malaysian community of 25,000 people with their contributions in the development and well-being of Brunei,” she said.
The ceremony concluded with a screening of a patriotic film, Ola Bola, followed by a get-together session with the acting high commissioner and officials at the high commission.
The high commission also planned several programmes and activities such as the ‘Carnival Merdeka’, today at the high commission with various activities lined up including a colouring contest, explore race and a bazaar featuring foods, drinks and local products. – Lyna Mohamad
