KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Japan are set to further strengthen their long-standing bilateral ties, particularly people-to-people relations, as the two countries prepare to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.
Malaysian Ambassador to Japan Dato’ Ahmad Rozian Abdul Ghani said the strong and enduring friendship between the two countries was underpinned by broad-based cooperation across various areas.
“Diplomatic relations were established on 31 August 1957, the very day Malaysia gained independence, which is of unique historical significance for Malaysia-Japan relations,” he said.
Ahmad Rozian said this in his remarks at the National Day Reception hosted by the Embassy of Malaysia in Tokyo on Monday to commemorate Malaysia’s 69th Independence Day and Malaysia Day.
About 300 guests attended the reception, including Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Kunimitsu Ayano, members of the Japanese government, the diplomatic corps, the business community, as well as Malaysian organisations and communities in Japan.
The ambassador also stressed the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties and further deepening bilateral relations as Malaysia and Japan look towards the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.
The reception also showcased Malaysia’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, with traditional Malaysian cuisine and cultural dances featured during the evening.
A highlight of the event was the pulut kuning cutting ceremony, adding a Malaysian cultural touch to the celebration.
-- BERNAMA