The High Commissioner of Malaysia to Bangladesh, Haznah Md Hashim, highlighted Malaysia's remarkable journey since its independence and the enduring relationship between Malaysia and Bangladesh during a speech at the 67th Independence Day celebration held at the Malaysian Embassy in Dhaka on Sunday.
Reflecting on the historic day in 1957 when Malaya—now Malaysia—proclaimed its independence from the United Kingdom, Haznah Md Hashim recalled how the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, led the nation in chanting "Merdeka" seven times, symbolising the birth of a sovereign and independent country.
“Today, Malaysia stands as an upper middle-income country, having achieved a steady economic growth of 3.7% in 2023,” the High Commissioner remarked.
She noted that Malaysia continues to be a key destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with the country recording USD 39.7 billion in investments in 2023. She also pointed out that Malaysia’s economy grew by 5.9% in the second quarter of 2024, the highest since Q4 2022.
Highlighting the strong bilateral ties between Malaysia and Bangladesh, Haznah Md Hashim said, “Malaysia was the first Muslim-majority nation to recognise Bangladesh as a sovereign state, establishing formal diplomatic relations on 31 January 1972. This brotherly relationship has since been cherished and developed, greatly benefiting both nations.”
She also commended Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for being one of the first heads of government to congratulate His Excellency Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus on his appointment as the Honourable Chief Advisor of Bangladesh during the formation of its Interim Government.
The High Commissioner also reiterated Malaysia’s readiness to support Bangladesh's government in its endeavours.
Emphasising the robust trade relationship between the two countries, she said, “Bangladesh is Malaysia's 19th largest trading partner and ranks second among South Asian nations. It is also Malaysia's 16th largest export destination. The potential for a Malaysia-Bangladesh Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would significantly benefit our businesses and strengthen our economies.”
Haznah Md Hashim also extended a warm invitation to Bangladeshi tourists, encouraging them to visit Malaysia for leisure and medical tourism, citing Malaysia’s advanced healthcare facilities and affordable medical services. She also highlighted Malaysia's emergence as an educational hub, attracting students from Bangladesh seeking high-quality education in a diverse and inclusive environment.
The High Commissioner called upon all Malaysians residing in Bangladesh to embrace the spirit of Merdeka and the year’s theme, Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka (spirit of independence). “Selamat Hari Kebangsaan!” she wished everyone in attendance, reinforcing the deep-rooted bond between the two nations.
BDST: 2051 HRS, AUG 31, 2024
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