By H.E Herman Hardynata Ahmad, Consul General of Malaysia in Karachi
On this significant and auspicious day, Malaysians everywhere celebrate Hari Merdeka to commemorate the birth of Malaysia. This year, Malaysia celebrates the 67th Anniversary of the National Day of Malaysia. Malaysia National Day marks the historic moment when our nation was born, and it is a time for us to reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, and strengthen the bonds of friendship especially between Malaysia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
As the Consul General of Malaysia in Karachi, I am deeply honored to share the spirit of this momentous day with Malaysians living in Pakistan and the people of this vibrant city, Karachi, a city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and dynamic spirit.
Malaysia’s journey has been described as colourful. We have effectively transitioned from a low-income agrarian nation at the time of our establishment to a fairly high-income modern trading nation as a consequence of rigorous planning and sound implementation. Malaysia has continued to move forward with purpose, remain strong and stand unified as a nation in the face of home adversity and global challenges.
As we celebrate our National Day, it is essential to reflect on the progress we have made as a nation. Since gaining independence in on August 31, 1957, Malaysia has transformed itself into a modern, progressive, and diverse nation. Our economic growth, technological advancement, and commitment to education have propelled us onto the global stage. Likewise, Karachi, with its bustling economy and dynamic cultural scene, resonates with the spirit of progress and innovation.
This year’s theme of “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka,” meaning a ‘Civil Malaysia— Embodiment of Independence’. ‘Jiwa Merdeka’ is the manifestation of the freedom of Malaysians from any negative elements in interpreting the spirit of patriotism and love of the country through various ways covering aspects of thinking, social and economic integration to form a strong, harmonious and progressive unity among the people. Just as Karachi thrives as a multicultural hub where different ethnicities, languages, and traditions coexist harmoniously albeit backgrounds. This diversity is not just in strength; it is the cornerstone of the national identity. ‘Jiwa Merdeka’ represents the aspiration to build a society where citizens, regardless of their background, find equal opportunities and are treated with dignity with respect and freedom. It is a call to action to uphold the values of tolerance, understanding, and cooperation, which are essential for harmonious coexistence in today’s interconnected world.
Malaysia and Pakistan have a long history of friendship that is marked by mutual respect and cooperation. Our countries share same values and face similar difficulties, making our collaboration all the more important. Our economic collaboration, commercial contacts, cultural exchanges, tourism, education, finance, and defence continue to thrive, benefiting both of our peoples. Despite the fact that there is vast untapped potential for cooperation between the two countries in a variety of areas such as social development, infrastructural development, agriculture, and other critical sectors. I am convinced that Malaysia, led by our Prime Minister the Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, he will drive Malaysian-Pakistani ties to new and higher heights in the coming years. This was proven with the launching of Batik Air’s (one of Malaysia’s private airlines) direct flight route from Kuala Lumpur to Karachi last year. This year, another milestone in the relations will be added with opening of a marketing office of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) n Karachi. It is hoped that with this new development Malaysia-Pakistan trade relation will be enhanced to a higher level of cooperation.
Education is a cornerstone of building a Civil Malaysia, the exchange of students and scholars between our countries has led to the cross-pollination of ideas and knowledge, enriching our societies and promoting cultural understanding. The ties forged through education will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our bilateral relations. Malaysian higher education institutions have always been open for collaborations and offering courses not only relevant to today’s demand but also affordable in cost. Pakistan, especially Karachi have always been the one of the destinations for our higher education institutions to visit every year and exhibit their latest learning packages.
Culture plays an unquestionable significance in bringing cultures together. Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage is impacted by its different communities, which reflect Karachi’s various social fabrics. Our nations’ arts, music, and culinary delights have the capacity to cross divides and forge friendship relationships that span boundaries. On this note, Alhamdulillah, we were honoured by having the Honourable Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori, Governor of Sindh in gracing our event which we had recently. The Consulate in collaboration with Consumer Association of Pakistan (CAP) organized the ‘Two Nations, One Feast: Savor the Flavors of Malaysia and Pakistan’ at the Consulate of Malaysia in Karachi that showcased the mixture of culinary experience of Malaysian and Pakistani foods to those attended the event.
In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to the people of Pakistan especially in Karachi for their warm hospitality and enduring friendship. Our ties are a testament to the fact that geographical boundaries can never limit the potential of human connections. I am also happy to congratulate Malaysians in Karachi who have exemplified the Malaysian name and established an honest and industrious reputation for themselves in this country throughout the years. Indeed, it is critical to protect Malaysia’s good name abroad, and I am pleased that the Malaysian community here has done so successfully. On this Malaysia National Day, let us renew our commitment to building a Civil Malaysia, where unity, diversity, and progress reign supreme.
Selamat Hari Merdeka and Happy Malaysia National Day!
