Malaysia Marks 69th National Day in Islamabad, Reaffirms Strong Bilateral Ties with Pakistan

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: The High Commission of Malaysia in Islamabad hosted a grand reception at the Serena Hotel on September 16 to commemorate Malaysia’s 69th National Day, bringing together senior Pakistani government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, media representatives, Friends of Malaysia and members of the Malaysian community in Pakistan.

The reception was hosted by H.E. Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, and To’ Puan Amelia Amani Lee Abdullah. H.E. Rana Tanveer Hussain, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, attended the event as the Guest of Honour.

H.E. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Federal Minister for Board of Investment, along with other senior Pakistani officials and Heads of Mission from ASEAN countries, also attended the reception.

Opening his remarks, Dato’ Mohammad Azhar led fellow Malaysians in chanting “Merdeka!” seven times, recalling the historic call associated with Malaysia’s independence and national unity.

The High Commissioner reflected on Malaysia’s journey since gaining independence on August 31, 1957, and the formation of Malaysia on September 16, 1963. He highlighted the longstanding friendship between Malaysia and Pakistan, recalling Pakistan’s support during Malaysia’s formative years and acknowledging the important contribution of the Pakistani community to Malaysia’s economy and society.

He emphasized the positive trajectory of Malaysia-Pakistan relations following their elevation to a Strategic Partnership in 2019. Dato’ Mohammad Azhar noted that bilateral trade stood at approximately US$1.6 billion last year and expressed optimism that trade and economic cooperation would continue to expand, supported by strong institutional relations and Pakistan’s young and dynamic population.

Education and tourism were also identified as important areas of bilateral cooperation. With around 5,000 Pakistani students currently pursuing studies in Malaysia, the High Commissioner expressed hope for increased two-way educational exchanges between the two countries.

He also invited guests to attend the “Visit Malaysia 2026: Tourism and Gastronomy Festival,” held from September 17 to 23, 2026, at the Serena Hotel’s Zamana Restaurant, offering an opportunity to experience Malaysia’s cultural and culinary heritage.

Concluding his remarks, Dato’ Mohammad Azhar conveyed his warmest wishes for the health and happiness of Pakistan’s leadership and for peace, progress and prosperity for the Government and people of Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Rana Tanveer Hussain extended warm congratulations to the Government and people of Malaysia on the country’s National Day. He commended Malaysia’s national development, particularly its achievements in industrialization, technological advancement and human capital development while preserving its cultural diversity and social values.

The Federal Minister reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Malaysia and encouraged greater Malaysian investment in Pakistan in key sectors, including agriculture, information technology, mining, energy and tourism.

He also appreciated Malaysia’s constructive role in international affairs, particularly its advocacy for the Palestinian people and humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The minister further expressed appreciation for Malaysia’s continued support for Pakistan’s aspiration to become a full Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.

The formal programme concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting to mark Malaysia’s 69th National Day, followed by a photo session featuring the Guest of Honour and attending Heads of Mission.

The celebrations featured vibrant cultural performances by Kencana Pawana, a traditional dance troupe specially flown in from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA).

Guests also viewed video presentations highlighting Malaysia’s journey to independence, the 2026 National Day Parade in Putrajaya, Visit Malaysia 2026 initiatives, and Malaysia’s educational opportunities for Pakistani students.

Adding an interactive dimension to the event, Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), together with representatives from eleven Malaysian universities, established information booths where guests could interact with academic representatives and learn about higher education opportunities in Malaysia.

The reception showcased Malaysia’s rich culture, educational opportunities and hospitality while underscoring the shared commitment of Malaysia and Pakistan to further strengthening their longstanding bilateral relations across political, economic, educational, cultural and people-to-people domains.