On 13 September 2023, the High Commission of Malaysia in Bandar Seri Begawan hosted a reception in conjunction with the 66th National Day and Malaysia Day 2023 at the Rizqun International Hotel. The event was attended by approximately 400 guests, including dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, senior Bruneian government officials, academia, prominent local businessmen, as well as representatives from the Malaysian community. The guest of honour (GoH) of the event was the Honourable Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, representing the Government of His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and spouse.
The reception commenced with the singing of national anthems of Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, followed by welcoming remarks from H.E. Raja Dato’ Reza Raja Zaib Shah, the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam. In the remarks, H.E. Raja Dato’ Reza lauded the long-standing friendship between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam, and expressed confidence that the ties between the two countries will continue to flourish in the years to come. His Excellency also underscored notable achievements in various cooperation between the two nations, including in the facets of economy, defence, tourism and education. The event proceeded with a cake cutting ceremony before the presentation of mementos to the GoH and spouse.
To showcase Malaysia's cultural elements, the guests were also entertained with traditional dances and live performance by Sarawak State Cultural Troupe specially flown in from Kuching, and bagpipers from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment throughout the event while indulging an array of Malaysia's signature cuisines.
