It is an honour for me to address all Malaysians in Cambodia in conjunction with the 56th National Day of Malaysia.

Malaysia is a birth place of many traditions and cultures and is a multiracial country that multiple ethnic groups – from the northern tip of Malaysia’s Peninsula and across the ocean to the States of Sabah and Sarawak – call home.

Each of these ethnicities not only practise their unique cultures but also its religions and beliefs. It might be demanding for some people to fathom the existence of so many ethnicities in one place, but Malaysia has, for so many years, proved the fact that unity through understanding surpasses the self-domination of one’s ethnic group alone.

The quintessence of Rukunegara is clearly demonstrated in people’s desire to live in harmony and peace and makes Malaysia one of the most progressive nations in the world.

The National Day slogan for this year is: “My Sovereign Malaysia, My Native Land”.

The theme embodies the spirit of independence knit together by the element of togetherness in a multiracial and multi-religious society. Over the years, Malaysia has transformed into a modern and fast-developing nation and our achievements would be far-fetched without the spirit of unity.

No amount of wealth or technological advancement could match the power and strength of unity in developing a nation. This spirit has been instilled by our founding fathers, and it is incumbent to all Malaysians to carry on the torch throughout our lives.

I also would like to take this opportunity to call on all Malaysians in Cambodia to continue to play significant roles in the Kingdom’s development. The relations between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Cambodia have a long history of cooperation dating back to the independence of both countries.

Many Malaysians have made Cambodia their second home, and Malaysian companies have had investments in all sectors of the economy. As member states of ASEAN, we recognise that the consolidation of economic activities is pertinent in the realisation of the ASEAN Economic Community by the year 2015. Cambodia would also enjoy the benefits of rapid economic activities through employment opportunities, transfer of technology and income generated through taxation and duties.

In conclusion, allow me to express my sincere gratitude to The Phnom Penh Post for giving me an opportunity to address the Malaysians on this auspicious occasion. I also wish to note my sincere gratitude to the Royal Government of Cambodia for the strong support given to the Embassy of Malaysia.

Thank you.

RAJA SAIFFUL RIDZUWAN

Charge D’Affaires ad interim

Embassy of Malaysia

Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia