Commemoration of Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong's Birthday in Rome, Italy

The Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong's Birthday 2008 in Italy was commemorated by a Flag Raising Ceremony followed by a Hi-Tea at the lawn of Ambassador's Official Residence in Rome on 7 June 2008 at 1600-2000 hours.  The function was well attended by all the HBS and LRS as well as the important guests, i.e. Malaysians (including spouses and children) who are residing in Rome, Milan, Varese, Livorno and as far away as Sicily Island.  Several Malaysians who were on vacation in Rome were also present.

The function started off with the singing of Negaraku and a patriotic song, MalaysiaKu Gemilang.  This was followed by a short remark by the Charge d'Affaires a.i. Mohammad Azhar bin Mazlan.  In his remark, he welcomed and thanked fellow Malaysians for their presence and reminded them to be proud and grateful to be Malaysians who were blessed and living harmoniously and peacefully amongst various racial and groups.  He cited that in diversity lied Malaysia's strength.  In addition, he propounded that Malaysians should continue to live by example whilst in Italy and at the same time not to forget their roots.

Immediately after the formalities, activities for the children themed Permainan Rakyat were also organized such as traditional game congkak, drawings, tiup belon, makan-makan and karaoke.  Guests then were invited to enjoy sumptuous Malaysian dishes prepared by the PERWAKILAN ladies such as nasi minyak with ayam masak merah, kambing panggang, beef kurma, fried chicken, curry mee, acar, sayur goreng campur, dhal, roti and fruits as well as Malaysian traditional desserts.

The Flag Raising Ceremony had provided a good opportunity to Malawakil to disseminate latest information and developments in Malaysia to those present.  Malawakil appreciates the funds allocated for the Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong's Birthday which has enable Malawakil to organize the function with success.  The total guests present were 88 persons.  All was appreciative in their comments and feedbacks about the Ceremony as it has enabled them to meet up with all Malaysians as well as Embassy staff and catch up on the latest news about Malaysia.  At the same time they were also able to savour Malaysian cuisines.

The function ended at 2030 hours.