SPEECH BY
MS. HAFIZAH ABDULLAH
CONSUL-GENERAL OF MALAYSIA
FOR
MALAYSIA’S 56TH NATIONAL DAY RECEPTION 2013
AT
PARMELIA HILTON HOTEL, PERTH
17 SEPTEMBER 2013
· The Hon. Mr Colin Barnett, MEc MLA - Premier of Western Australia; Minister for State Development; and Science
· Mr. Bill Johnston MLA – Shadow Minister for State Development; Energy; Mines and Petroleum - Representing the Leader of the Opposition;
· Hon. Dr Mike Nahan BEc MLA – Minister for Energy; Finance; Citizenship and Multicultural Interests;
· Mr. Michael Wood, State Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade;
· My Dear Colleagues, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Assalamualaikum and a very good evening,
1. Today, I am especially honored and overwhelmed by your presence here in joining us to celebrate the 56th Anniversary of Malaysia’s Independence. But, first, allow me to take this opportunity to extend my warm welcome and heartfelt appreciation to Honorable Premier Colin Barnett, and Mr. Bill Johnston MLA who is representing the Leader of the State’s Opposition for gracing this event despite their busy schedules and parliamentary commitments. Thank you, Sir, for your presence.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
2. Malaysia achieved its independence from the British on the 31st August 1957. The then Malaya’s journey to independence was without a doubt a journey that was filled with challenges. But, with the aspiring leadership of her leaders and the resolve of her people, the dream to become a country that is independent and progressive has become a reality ever since. Moving forward, the then Malaya achieved another milestone on 16 September 1963 when Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak joined Malaya to form what is now known as Malaysia (before Singapore left Malaysia in 1965). Yesterday marked the 50th Anniversary of the formation of Malaysia. Rightly so today, we celebrate the double occasions that are important for Malaysia and all Malaysians.
3. It is no secret that Malaysia’s stability and economic progress since her independence in 1957 are considered as one of the great success stories against the backdrops of global uncertainties and the world’s economic challenges. In the span of 56 years, Malaysia has moved from a country that was heavily reliant on primary commodities to what it is now a highly industrialized and service-oriented nation - thus changing gears towards a different phase of economic growth and development. This in turn has brought forward significant economic and social progress for Malaysians. Despite these positive developments, Malaysia has not been immune to various challenges that continuously threatened her security and stability. That is why; maintaining peace and harmony within our multiracial and multicultural society remain a priority for Malaysia as it can directly affect the country’s stability, harmony and prosperity.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
4. Malaysia’s success and stability are also the result of having good and friendly relations with many countries across the globe. In this regard, Malaysia values her close relations especially with Australia considering our traditional and historical links. We also appreciate the assistance and the support that have been and currently being provided by the Australian Government in the fields of agriculture, education, tourism, mining and oil and gas exploration. The challenge upon Malaysia now is to find new ways to diversify and increased our investments in Australia, especially in Western Australian given the State’s abundant resources and opportunities.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
5. Befitting with today’s auspicious occasion, I would like to extend my warm wishes to fellow Malaysians who are visiting, living or working in Western Australia. I would like to reaffirm the Consulate General’s commitments to be of service and assistance to them and to continue to work closely with them to further improve the Malaysian communities’ experiences in Western Australia. To our Australian and non-Australian friends, I have the honor and the pleasure to invite each and every one of you to Malaysia to enjoy the warmth and luxurious experiences that Malaysia has to offer. Since next year will be our “Visit Malaysia Year 2014”, - we have in store various touristy programs and packages that are affordable, suitable and enjoyable for all categories of tourists. We welcome you with our open arms and more importantly with our warm hearts.
6. Before I end, I would like to take a minute to express my personal gratitude to you for making this evening a memorable evening. To the staff of the Consulate General and to our corporate sponsors, thank you for your tireless efforts in making this event run smoothly. Ladies and gentlemen please enjoy the evening and I hope you will stay on to enjoy our traditional dances. Thank you.
Consul General of Malaysia
PERTH
17 September 2013
