From the left, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ms. Suanesavanh Vignaket, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Lao PDR, Mr. Edi Irwan Mahmud and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs  Maythong Thammavongsa cut cake to celebrate the Malaysia's National Day in Vientiane on Sept 12.

(KPL)The Embassy of Malaysia in the Lao PDR hosted a reception to commemorate the 68th National Day of Malaysia, 62nd Malaysia Day and 92nd Malaysian Armed Forces Day held in Vientiane on Sept 12.

The celebration was hosted by Ambassador of Malaysia to the Lao PDR, Mr. Edi Irwan Mahmud, and was graced by Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ms. Suanesavanh Vignaket, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs  Maythong Thammavongsa, alongside ambassadors, ministers, and representatives from various international organisations.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Edi Irwan highlighted the significance of the national celebrations, which reflect Malaysia’s rich history and diverse identity.  “Every year on 31st August, Malaysians from all walks of life come together to commemorate our nation's independence in 1957 — a historic moment that marked the birth of a sovereign, united, and multi-ethnic Malaya,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of Malaysia Day on 16th September, which celebrates the formation of Malaysia in 1963 through the inclusion of Sabah and Sarawak, and coincides with the Malaysian Armed Forces Day, first observed in 1933.

“These significant milestones not only honour our past but also provide a moment for reflection on our journey as a nation,” the ambassador added.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Edi Irwan noted Malaysia’s readiness to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, a responsibility passed on by Laos. Under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” Malaysia aims to foster a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous ASEAN region.

The ambassador also highlighted a major upcoming milestone in bilateral relations between Malaysia and Laos “Our Prime Ministers, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and  Sonexay Siphandone, have agreed to jointly commemorate the60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Laos in 2026. We plan to mark this occasion with a series of joint initiatives and celebrations, reflecting six decades of enduring friendship and cooperation.”

The event also featured cultural performances, showcasing Malaysia’s multicultural heritage, and a reception that offered guests a taste of Malaysian cuisine.

This year’s celebrations underscored Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, fostering enduring diplomatic ties, and promoting peace and unity in Southeast Asia.

KPL