Presentation of a gift to the Embassy by a Cuban artist, Friday, 28 November, 2008.

Presentation of a gift to the Embassy by a Cuban artist, Friday, 28 November, 2008.

Mr. Ernesto Milanes, an up and coming Cuban artist presented an original artwork made of wood depicting an enjoined Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian national flag) and the Cuban flag to the Embassy on Friday, 28 November 2008. H.E. Ambassador Yean Yoke Heng accepted the gift on behalf of the Embassy.

Mr. Milanes has worked on a wide spectrum of medium i.e. paintings, sculptures and unique pieces. Some of his artworks were acquired by international collectors as well as being displayed in Cuba. His pieces can be found in important institutions in Havana including in Havana’s International Conference Center and in other Cuban provinces.

His forte is in making humidors.  One his latest work was presented to President Lula of Brazil during the latter’s State Visit to Cuba on 30 November 2008. Another one was auctioned off for USD10,000 at the las Habanos Cigar Festival 2008 on 21 November 2008, the proceeds of which were donated to the hurricanes victims in Cuba following the devastation wrought by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

The presentation of the art work was also witnessed by the former Cuban Ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. Pedro Monzón Barata.

(From left to right) H.E. Pedro Monzón Barata, former Cuban Ambassador to Malaysia; Mr. Ernesto Milanes; and H.E. Yean Yoke Heng, Ambassador of Malaysia.

Ambassador Yean expressing his appreciation to Mr. Milanes for his gift to the Malaysian Embassy.

(From left to right) Mr. Nazri Said, Personal Assistant to the Ambassador of Malaysia; Mr. Samzah Jamirin, Third Secretary of the Embassy of Malaysia; Mr. David James Hampton; H.E. Pedro Monzón Barata; Mrs. Eunices M. Rodriguez Trueba, wife of the Cuban artist; Mr. Ernesto Milanes; H.E. Yean Yoke Heng; and Mr. Mohd Fareed Zakaria, Second Secretary / Head of Chancery, Embassy of Malaysia.