Guests tucking into a scrumptious German and Malaysian buffet during the German Unity Day reception in Penang.
THE core belief that freedom, democracy and cooperation can build bridges between nations was at the heart of a German Unity Day reception in Penang.
The event marking the 35th anniversary of the reunification of East and West Germany was hosted by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany and brought together state leaders, the diplomatic corp, business representatives and cultural partners for a scrumptious spread of German and Malaysian food.
German Ambassador to Malaysia Silke Riecken-Daerr said it was significant not just for Germans, but people around the world, too.
“The peaceful fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the lifting of the Iron Curtain meant that families separated for decades could visit each other again.
Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Malaysia, Silke Riecken-Darr, delivering her speech during the German Unity Day reception in Penang.
“People could live, study and travel freely because Europe became open,” she said at the reception in Eastern and Oriental Hotel (E&O), George Town.
The reunification was formalised on Oct 3, 1990, ending 45 years of division and reestablished Germany as a single sovereign nation.
With geopolitical tensions currently gripping the world, Riecken-Daerr called on countries to continue upholding the principles of peace to avoid a return to imperialism and lawlessness.
She highlighted the strong and enduring bilateral ties between Germany and Malaysia built on collaboration in trade, technology and cultural exchange.
“Germany is one of Malaysia’s largest foreign investors with around 800 companies operating here and employing over 65,000 people.”
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state’s transformation into a global manufacturing hub owed much to the arrival of pioneering German firms decades ago.
“The consistently strong presence of German businesses ever since has contributed to making Penang one of Malaysia’s key focal points for investment inflows and external trade,” he said.
Chow also described Germany’s reunification as one of the modern world’s most historic milestones and raised a toast to the continued well-being of both nations.
“May it serve as a strong reminder to the international community that a commitment to peace and reconciliation can make the world better for all,” said Chow.
The reception included an exhibition by German firms operating in Penang.
Also present were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Penang infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari and Honorary Consul of Germany in Penang, Datuk Hans Brenner.
