FRIENDLY RELATIONS LAUDED AT MALAYSIAN RECEPTION

FRIENDLY RELATIONS LAUDED AT MALAYSIAN RECEPTION

By Jon Tampoi

The friendly relations between Brunei and Malaysia, especially Sabah and Sarawak, were highlighted by Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Datuk Ali bin Abdullah, at a reception held to mark the 49^th Malaysian National Day last night.  The reception was held at the Empire Hotel & Country Club.

Present as guest of honour was Pehin Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hj Jumat, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources and his spouse, Datin Hjh Masnah bte Hj Tuah.

The Malaysian High Commissioner is his speech said the presence of His Majesty Al Marhum Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien SaÂ?adul Khairi Waddien during the declaration of the Independence of Malaya in 1957 reflected these close ties.

Cooperation between the two nations continues to deepen existing relationships and expand for the mutual benefit of both countries and citizens, he added.

A cake cutting ceremony by the guest of honour and his spouse, with the Malaysian High Commissioner and his spouse, Datin Wan Kamariah, was also held to mark the occasion.

The evening was enlivened by cultural shows presented by dancers who were specially brought in from Sabah for the reception.

Also present at the reception were permanent secretaries, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and distinguished guests.

Since achieving independence 49 years ago, Malaysia has attained remarkable progress in economic development and other sectors.  From being a producer of commodities such as rubber, tin and timber, which formed the backbone of the economy, Malaysia has transformed itself into a producer of manufactured goods such as electronic and electrical items in efforts to diversify its economy.  These currently form 80 per cents of the countryÂ?s exports as it continues to strive to achieve Vision 2020 of becoming a developed nation.