Malaysia celebrates her independence in Italy this year, against the backdrop of the world’s largest exhibition, Expo Milano 2015. The Malaysian Ambassador to Italy, Dato’ Abdul Samad Othman, highlighted Malaysia’s success at promoting sustainable development, while guests were entertained to an array of Malaysian cultural performances, including the Dikir Barat, a selection of Patriotic songs, and a selection of Malaysian food.
“We are here at Expo Milan to show the world our Malaysian cultural heritage and diversity. As displayed here at our Pavilion, each performance reflects our story of rich diversity and the bonds that unite us as a nation. We want the world to experience Malaysia and what we have to offer.
Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage is portrayed through a collection of eye-catching traditional and cultural events, including a parade of costumes, batik canting (a process of designing batik using hot wax), formation of the national flag, dance lessons, and much more.
For those looking to submerge in the complete Malaysian experiences, the Pavilion is host to a range of activities including bamboo dance, main kompang (a traditional Malaysian instrument), top spinning, colourful trishaw rides and other exciting happenings to showcase the country’s unique cultural heritage and diversity.
“Today, we not only celebrate our independence, but also our commitment towards a sustainable future for the collective ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) region. We provide you a taste of Malaysia and look forward to welcoming you to our experience “the real thing” in the near future,” added Ambassador Abdul Samad.
The Malaysia Pavilion brings together the region’s efforts in upholding sustainability and the preservation of rich natural resources through numerous activities on display. Uniquely designed, the Pavilion pays tribute to Malaysia’s lush virgin rainforest and its gifts to the world.
The Pavilion is ranked among the top three pavilions at Expo Milano, in the VIVI Milano survey conducted by Corriere della Sera. The Pavilion has also attracted 1.7 million visitors thus far, making it one of the most outstanding performers of the Expo.
Drawing inspiration from the rainforest seed, the distinctive features of the Malaysia Pavilion illustrates the country’s commitment towards socio-economic transformation through innovation and sustainability.
Also present during the event was the Commissioner General of the Malaysia Pavilion, Dr. Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, who is also the Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, MITI.
About Malaysia
Malaysia is a country which offers a unique look into the rest of Asia as a bustling melting pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. Its multiculturalism has made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise and home to hundreds of colourful festivals. Malaysians are very relaxed, warm and friendly. Being ranked as the 10th most popular travel destination in the world by UNWTO and the 4th best shopping destination in the world by CNN, Malaysia offers an endless array of excitement. Malaysia is Chair of ASEAN for 2015 and will be facilitating more investment opportunities to the region.
