SPECIAL REMARKS BY
His Excellency Edi Irwan Mahmud
Ambassador of malaysia
to the Lao People's Democratic Republic
BUKA PUASA EVENT WITH
the Malaysian Business Chamber Laos (MBCL)
VENUE: FOUR SEASON RESTAURANT, VIENTIANE, LAOS
14 MARCH 2025, FRIDAY, 6.30 PM
SALUTATIONS
Mr. Tee Chee Seng
President of the Malaysian Business Chamber Laos (MBCL)
Members of the MBCL
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,
Salam Malaysia Madani and Good evening,
- I am delighted to be here with all of you this evening as we come together to observe the blessed tradition of Buka Puasa. This is a special time of reflection, unity, and gratitude, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to share this moment with each of you.
- Ramadan is a time for us to reflect not only on our faith but also on the values that bind us as individuals and as a community. Fasting during this holy month is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity, of empathy, patience, and self-discipline. It is a time to purify our hearts, renew our intentions, and deepen our connection to both our faith and one another. But beyond the personal significance of fasting, Ramadan also serves as an opportunity for us to come together as a community—to share in the joy of breaking our fast, to offer support to those in need, and to be reminded of the importance of compassion in our everyday lives.
- As we come together, we also reflect on the core values of Malaysia Madani, which emphasize harmony, inclusivity, and progress. Through this vision, emphasized by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, our Prime Minister, Malaysia strives to build a society where every individual is valued, where diversity is celebrated, and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. It calls upon us to strengthen the fabric of our nation, to ensure that no one is left behind, and to embrace our shared responsibility in creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
- This year, Malaysia is proud to hold the Chairmanship of ASEAN for the fifth times, which provides us with an opportunity to further our commitment to regional cooperation and peace. In line with the Malaysia Madani vision and our theme, “Inclusiveness and Sustainability,”, Malaysia’s leadership within ASEAN is an extension of our commitment to fostering cooperation and mutual respect among the nations of Southeast Asia. The ASEAN Chairmanship provides us with an opportunity to continue advancing the principles of ASEAN centrality, inclusivity, and sustainability across the region, building stronger connections between our people, economies, and cultures.
- While we hold the ASEAN Chairmanship, Malaysia aims to focus on issues that are close to our hearts—sustainable development, regional stability, and, most importantly, economic cooperation. In this regard, Malaysia’s economic cooperation with Laos plays a vital role in strengthening the ties between our nations and contributing to the broader ASEAN community. In line with the Lao Government’s priorities of economic and sustainable development, I believe our collaboration will help to foster economic growth, trade, and investment that will benefit both our countries. Our shared efforts in areas such as infrastructure, education, and technology contribute to the broader goal of building a more interconnected and prosperous region.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
- As we come together this evening to break our fast, let us also take a moment to reflect on the opportunities that lie ahead—on how we, as individuals and as a nation, can contribute to the collective prosperity of our region. Malaysia, through its leadership in ASEAN and its commitment to Malaysia Madani, continues to set the stage for a future that is united, inclusive, and forward-looking. Let us take inspiration from these values as we work together to build a more harmonious and prosperous future, both within Malaysia, Laos and across ASEAN.
- May the spirit of Ramadan, alongside the principles of Malaysia Madani, guide our actions, strengthen our bonds, and inspire us to contribute positively to our communities. Let us also remain steadfast in our commitment to regional cooperation, as we work hand-in-hand with our ASEAN partners and neighbors, such as Laos, to achieve shared prosperity and growth.
- Finally, as we break our fast this evening, may we do so with gratitude in our hearts, reflecting on the blessings we have and the ways in which we can continue to make a positive impact in our society and the world around us.
Selamat berbuka puasa.
May Allah bless us all with peace, health, and prosperity in this holy month and always.
Thank you.