Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope was the theme at the 66th National Day and 60th Malaysia Day celebration. The theme is in line with the determination and commitment of developing Malaysia with the people being united, possessing a high spirit of unity, and living in peace and prosperity.
The theme chosen by Malaysia aligns well with the New Year’s Message for 2023 from the Hon. Sitiveni L. Rabuka, Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji that was a message of hope and unity. Connecting the dots between the two messages, the Chargé d'Affaires Ad Interim of the High Commission of Malaysia in Suva (CDA) interpreted it as an indication that Fiji and Malaysia are like-minded friends with shared values. The CDA also spoke about ongoing efforts of both Fiji and Malaysia to build on the strong storied shared historical relations with the aim of fortifying bilateral relations in all domains. He then highlighted in his speech that the excellent friendship between Malaysia and Fiji also extends to trade ties. Total trade for the period of January-May 2023 was valued at USD87.4million, an increase of 69.64% from USD51.52 recorded during the same period in 2022. As mentioned in the speech, Malaysia consistently holds a position among Fiji's top ten trading partners. This reflects the robustness and resilience of Fiji-Malaysia bilateral trade relations. He hoped that the success of Malaysian companies established in Fiji would inspire more Malaysian businesses to expand their operations to Fiji as well.
Appreciation was expressed by the CDA too for the remarkable support and cooperation from the Government and the people of Fiji. Expanding on the theme, the CDA wrapped up his speech by wishing “Selamat Hari Merdeka dan Selamat Hari Malaysia” to everyone that gathered together in the spirit of unity with the flames of hope burning brightly at the event.
