A LARGER than expected turnout of nearly 400 guests attended the Sri Lankan High Commission in Malaysia’s 78th Independence Day gathering.
The celebrations in Kuala Lumpur began with the hoisting of the Sri Lankan flag and singing of the national anthem.
Two minutes of silence were observed to remember lives lost in Sri Lanka’s independence movement, followed by the lighting of the oil lamp by acting High Commissioner MI Mohamed Rizvi and other special guests.
Messages from Sri Lanka president Anura Kumara Dissanayake, prime minister Harini Amarasuriya and foreign affairs, foreign employment and tourism minister Vijitha Herath were read out by representatives in Sinhala, Tamil and English.
Herath, in her message read by a representative from her ministry, Haniya Rizvi, said it was not only a time to celebrate achievements, but also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced and those that lie ahead, and to renew a collective resolve towards overcoming them.
She noted that despite recent challenges brought about by Cyclone Ditwah, the resilience of its citizens reflected the unbreakable spirit of Sri Lanka.
“Together, we move forward with determination to build a stronger and robust country, where all Sri Lankans can come together to secure a brighter future for the generations to come, while starting to overcome tough setbacks and moving ahead with renewed determination,” she said.
Mohamed Rizvi said he was pleased by the large turnout of Sri Lankans, Malaysians and other nationalities.
“As a country, we are celebrating this day in the spirit of unity, reclaiming our sovereignty and identity,” he said while highlighting Sri Lanka’s plural society and its citizens’ resilience in facing major challenges.
He also highlighted Sri Lanka Expo 2026 which will be happening in Colombo in June, showcasing the country’s economic growth and various industries.
“I hope that this would be a platform for international businesses to connect with Sri Lanka,” he said.
The event also featured a performance by Sinhala Cultural Dance Troupe of the Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society, including Sri Lanka’s pooja dance, bharatanatyam and elements from other cultures.
Guests later tucked into a spread of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Special guests present included Federation Of Malaysian Sri Lankan Organisations executive committee member and Sri Lanka-Malaysia Business Chamber deputy chairman Magendran Muthiah, Malaysia Sinhalese Association president A Hemadasa and Sri Lankan Muslim Professionals and Business Association president Mohamed Mousoom Imamundeen.
