Monday, September 08, 2008 Malaysia's 51st National Day By Gigie A. Agtay
TWO days after thousands of Malaysians converge to watch the colorful parade and performances along the streets of Kuala Lumpur to mark the country's 51st Independence Day, the Malaysian Consul General in Davao City Nik Mustafa Kamal Nik Ahmad along with his wife Siti Fatimah hosted a post National Day reception.
More than a hundred guests representing Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal, foreign consulates, business leaders, tourism sector, military, among others, gathered at the Grand Ballroom of the Waterfront Insular Hotel to witness the historical day.
"Hari Merdeka" (Independence Day) is a national day of the Philippine's neighbor country -- Malaysia -- commemorating the independence of the Federation of Malaya from British colonial rule. In a wider context, it celebrates the formation of Malaysia.
The official proclamation of independence was made on August 31, 1957, at Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), in Kuala Lumpur.
The formation of the Federation of Malaysia was then announced on September 16, 1963 as Malaysia Day. The Independence Day celebration is still held on August 31, the original independence date of Malaya.
Ahmad, in his speech, expressed hopes that the current observance of Ramadhan will bring peace and better tomorrow for everyone in Mindanao.
"Ramadhan is a time of reflection and peace struggle to overcome anger and violence and be at peace with oneself, with God, the community and the environment," he said.
Ahmad cited strong bilateral relations between Malaysia and the Philippines, fundamentals in Asia.
Davao City Vice Mator Sara Duterte was one of the evening's main guests representing his father, Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte.
Ahmad offered a toast for health and happiness of the people of Malaysia and the Philippines.
Sara Duterte said the reception is testimony to the strong relation between two countries that have now become mature, solid, and very strong.
"May the strong relations continue to grow in pursuit of mutual growth and shared perspective in regional and global perspectives," the vice mayor said.
Guests were treated to an array of Malaysia's popular dishes that include Satay, Fried Noodles, Roti Canai, Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice), to name a few. Everyone was made to savor and appreciate the diversity of Malaysian foods that are often described as spicy and flavorful.
