The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Malaysia celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka on 04 February 2023 with the flag hoisting ceremony at the High Commission premises with the participation of over 150 members from the Sri Lankan community in Malaysia followed by a reception on 07 February 2023 at the High Commission.
The event on 04 February commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by the High Commissioner Air Chief Marshal (Rtd) Sumangala Dias followed by the singing of the National Anthem. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. Thereafter multi-faith religious observances were conducted to invoke blessings on Sri Lanka and its people followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by the High Commissioner and representatives of the Sri Lankan community in Malaysia.
The Independence Day messages of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Minister of Foreign Affairs M.U.M. Ali Sabry were read in all three languages. Speaking at the occasion, the High Commissioner stated that Sri Lanka has the potential to overcome the current economic and development setbacks . The ceremony concluded with the singing of the national anthem in Tamil and refreshments were served to the guests.
The reception on 07 February, held at the Chancery building, commenced with the national anthem of Sri Lanka followed by the national anthem of Malaysia. Approximately 175 guests including diplomats, officials of the Malaysian Government, members of the Malaysian business community and members of the Sri Lankan community in Malaysia were present. During his speech the High Commissioner stressed upon the reformist agenda of the government to achieve economic stability and transform Sri Lanka into a competitive economy. Highlighting the cordial bilateral relations, the High Commissioner thanked the Government of Malaysia for always preserving the time tested relationship with Sri Lanka without exception. Following the screening of a video on Sri Lanka and its independence, a cultural show of Kandyan and Bharatanatyam dances was performed by the children of the Ceylonese Malaysian and Sri Lankan communities. Sri Lankan food was served to the invitees and promotional videos of Sri Lankan commodities such as tea, spices including cinnamon and cashew nuts were screened.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Kuala Lumpur
14 February 2023
