More than 250 Malaysians gathered at the official residence of YBhg. Dato’ Rustam Yahaya, Ambassador of Malaysia to Oman on the eve of the 56th National Day of Malaysia to commemorate the historical day with fellow Malaysians based in Muscat, Oman. The Malaysian community in Muscat donned their best Raya attire to the auspicious event which was also held to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri 1434 H.
The attendance to the double event was well represented by all the major ethnic groups in Malaysia; the Malays, Chinese and Indians as well as those coming from Sabah and Sarawak. Those present voiced their gratitude to the Embassy for hosting such event which provided them with the opportunity to personally meet YBhg. Dato’ Rustam and to get to know fellow Malaysians in Oman. A wooden divider was also transformed into a standing display to exhibit some pictures with regards to independence as well as pictures of events organized by the Embassy.
The event started with a speech by YBhg. Dato Rustam in which he stressed the importance of Malaysians in Oman to be united regardless of one’s political affiliation and personal views. He also cautioned Malaysians in Oman to be extra vigilant in light of the present world scenario and to keep the Embassy updated of their whereabouts. At 8.00 p.m local time, to coincide with the struck of midnight in Malaysia, the Negaraku was sung with such pride and deep sense of patriotism followed by the cake cutting ceremony after which dinner was served.
Those present was feted to an array of traditional Raya dishes such as chicken rendang, nasi impit, kuah kacang, beef curry, kuah lodeh, mix vegetables and sambal sotong. Everyone present was so happy to be served Malaysian dishes and was even ecstatic to see the more than 1500 chicken satay prepared by the Embassy staff as well as YBhg. Dato Rustam’s well known “Sup Tulang” served at the dinner table.
Aside from the main dishes, Malaysians in Muscat also brought in a variety of desserts in the spirit of “sharing is caring” while the Embassy also received a complimentary cake from the Malaysian Café operating in Oman. The event was made even memorable as it coincided with the birthday of YBhg. Datin Dr. Musrifah Sapardi, the wife of YBhg. Duta Besar. YBhg. Datin Dr. Musrifah was presented with a pulut kuning cake and everyone joined in singing to her the “Happy Birthday” song. With the commemoration of the 56th National Day, Hari Raya Aidilfitri 1434H and the surprise birthday party all in one day, it was indeed a night to remember!
Embassy of Malaysia, Muscat
Sultanate of Oman