BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE 57th Malaysian National Day celebration is different from the previous years due to the unprecedented tragic events involving the Malaysian Airlines MH370 and MH17, said the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei.

“The government of Malaysia shares the pain and sorrow of the families of the victims,” said Datuk Sahak Salleh during the reception for the 57th Malaysian national day at the Rizqun International Hotel last night.

The High Commissioner also said that the “Friendship Bridge” launched by the leaders of both countries last year were notable among the many indications of the relationship between Brunei and Malaysia.

“This bridge crosses the Malaysia-Brunei riverine border of the Pandaruan River (and) is one of the many indications of the special relations manifested by long historical ties and traditions shared between Malaysia and Brunei, including the sovereignty of the Malay rulers,” he said.

“The presence of Malaysian companies including Malaysian Government-Linked Companies as well as other established companies here is definitely the manifestation of the growing cooperation between our two countries,” he added.

The High Commissioner also thanked His Majesty’s government for the support and cooperation to the high commission, and to all Malaysians living peacefully in the Sultanate.

“May the excellent state of bilateral relations between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam continue to flourish in the years to come,” said the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei.

The reception last night started with the national anthems of both Brunei and Malaysia aired upon the arrival of Brunei’s Minister of Education YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Awg Abu Bakar Hj Apong and spouse Datin Paduka Hjh Jahrah Hj Mohamad.

A Doa Selamat was recited afterwards, followed by a welcoming remarks from the Datu Sahak and a cake-cutting ceremony as well as presentation of souveniers.

Also present during the reception were a number of state dignitaries, senior government officials and prominent businessmen in the country.

The Brunei Times