Independence Day Reception at Embassy of Malaysia, Dublin- Minister of State Neale Richmond gives good wishes
An Independence Day reception was hosted at the Hilton Hotel Dublin yesterday. The ambassador of Malaysia, Wan Yusri Wan Rashid, Minister of State for Financial Services, Neale Richmond, and other senior officers were present at the event.
(Also read: 57th ASEAN Day Celebration- Ambassador Welcomes At Embassy Of Malaysia, Dublin)
Message from the ambassador
The ambassador of Malaysia, Wan Yusri Wan Rashid mentioned his gratitude for the honour of celebrating at the said event. He told the story of Malaysia which gained independence on 31st August 1957 after being in colonisation for more than 400 years. Initially, what was known as “Malaya” soon became Malaysia after welcoming Sabah and Sarawak into the region.
The ambassador spoke of his utmost contentment that Malaysia has been able to “achieve significant economic and social progress” due to hard work, commitment, support, a strong democratic government system, good governance, sound national development and its planning and vision of committed leaders.
After mentioning the GDP growth that Malaysia has been able to achieve, the ambassador went on to cite the challenges that are still looming over their heads. However, with a vision set by the current Prime Minister, Malaysia would continue to strive to be a “prosperous nation”, he said.
The ambassador, Wan Yusri Wan Rashid further added that their country is proud to have partnered with Ireland which has helped in investment in Malaysia with a great “people-to-people exchange” over the years. With all the support from neighbouring countries, he ensured that Malaysia envisions becoming an “active global citizen”.
He closed his speech by thanking the Irish President Michael D Higgins, Taoiseach Simon Harris and the government of Ireland for the celebration of their 67th Independence Day on their beautiful island.
Message from Minister of State
The Minister of State, Neale Richmond also sent his greetings to everyone present at the event and hailed the celebrations of Malaysia with “Hari Merdeka”. He explained that it is a day to commemorate the birth of Malaysia sixty-seven years ago.
He said, “Hari Merdeka should serve as a day for Malaysians to reflect upon how far we have come as a nation. We also want to renew our collective sense of purpose required to meet the challenges that lie ahead”.
The Minister of State accredited the potential of Malaysia-Ireland relations that serve a “mutual benefit” and have been strengthening with each passing day.
He added, “Ireland remains one of Malaysia’s most important trading partners in Europe.” The advantages of bilateral trade have shown great results for both regions, he emphasised with details.
He specified that as Malaysia endeavours to become an active global citizen, he supports a halt to the Israel-Gaza war. He stressed the peace that Palestinians have now longed for days and is committed to “work closely with Ireland and other like-minded countries toward achieving a lasting peace for Palestine”.
The Minister of State closed his speech by showing courtesy to the President of Ireland, Taoiseach Simon Harris, the government and the amazing people of Ireland. He appreciated the efforts of Irish Insider for covering the events and promoting his address to the esteemed readers who would know how strong Malaysia-Ireland friendship has grown.
During the event, traditional Malaysian dance was performed in honour of the Independence Day celebrations at the Embassy of Malaysia, Dublin.