By Rafiq Vayani
KARACHI: The Consulate General of Malaysia in Karachi hosted a flag-raising ceremony to mark the 69th National Day of Malaysia, with the participation of Malaysian students, families, professionals, business community members, consulate officers and staff, as well as distinguished Pakistani guests. In his remarks, the Consul General of Malaysia in Karachi His Excellency Mr. Mohd Yunus Ibrahim welcomed the Malaysian community and Pakistani friends, describing the occasion as especially meaningful as his first National Day programme with the Malaysian community in Karachi since assuming his post.
Addressing the gathering, the Consul General highlighted the significance of having a “jiwa yang merdeka” a free and independent spirit, emphasising that Malaysians living abroad represent their country through their conduct, values and interactions with local communities. He stressed that patriotism extends beyond National Day and is reflected in respecting local laws, helping others, building friendships and upholding the good name of Malaysia. He also encouraged Malaysian students, professionals and businesspeople in Pakistan to strengthen people-to-people connections and contribute to closer Malaysia–Pakistan relations through education, professional networks, cultural exchange and cooperation.
The Consul General further underscored that independence is both a right and a responsibility, or “amanah,” inherited from previous generations and entrusted to future generations. Calling for unity under the spirit of “Rapatkan saf, teguhkan muafakat, satukan tenaga dan ikhtiar”, he urged Malaysians abroad to stand together, support one another and transform their diversity into strength.
