ISLAMABAD – Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia to the Pakistan, together with his spouse, To’ Puan Amelia Amani Lee Abdullah, hosted an Appreciation Hi-Tea at the High Commission of Malaysia in Islamabad.
The gathering brought together members of the diplomatic corps, Pakistani government officials, business leaders, representatives of think tanks and friends of Malaysia.
The event was held to express appreciation to the High Commission’s partners and stakeholders for their continued friendship, support and cooperation over the years, while providing an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen personal and professional relationships.
In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Dato’ Azhar described the gathering as more than a gesture of appreciation, emphasising that it also reflected Malaysia’s belief in building a better world through peace, progress and prosperity.
He underscored that these principles have long guided Malaysia’s foreign policy, particularly its commitment to peaceful coexistence, dialogue, negotiation and the peaceful resolution of disputes. He encouraged those present, representing different countries, institutions and communities, to continue promoting understanding and cooperation despite differences in perspectives and backgrounds.
The High Commissioner also expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of Pakistan for their warm hospitality and support extended to the High Commission and the Malaysian community in Pakistan.
He particularly acknowledged the cooperation received from various Pakistani government institutions, including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Interior, as well as provincial authorities.
Reflecting on recent diplomatic engagements, H.E. Amb. Dato’ Azhar highlighted the visit by ASEAN Heads of Mission to Sindh, which included meetings with the Governor and Chief Minister of Sindh, engagements with Karachi’s business community and interactions with university students.
He noted the importance of engaging younger generations, particularly in understanding their perspectives on economic prosperity, regional security and peace. On Malaysia–Pakistan bilateral relations, the High Commissioner recalled the longstanding friendship between the two countries, including Pakistan’s early recognition of Malaysia’s independence in August 1957 and the elevation of bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership in 2019.
He also acknowledged the historical contributions of Pakistanis to Malaysia, dating back to the period before independence, and recognised the role of the approximately 100,000strong Pakistani community in Malaysia in contributing to the country’s development.
Turning to regional cooperation, H.E. Amb. Dato’ Azhar commended the active role of the ASEAN Committee in Islamabad in engaging with Pakistani authorities and stakeholders.
He referred to the Committee’s recent joint courtesy call on Pakistan’s newly appointed Foreign Secretary, as well as the anticipated maiden visit of the ASEAN SecretaryGeneral to Pakistan later in November. He highlighted ASEAN’s growing economic significance, particularly following the inclusion of Timor-Leste as its eleventh member, and the considerable potential for closer engagement between ASEAN and Pakistan.
With ASEAN representing a combined economy of approximately USD4 trillion and Pakistan possessing a population of around 250 million, he emphasised the opportunities for greater economic collaboration and mutually beneficial partnerships.
The High Commissioner also took the opportunity to promote Malaysia as a destination for tourism, education and business under the Visit Malaysia campaign, which has been extended through 2027. He noted that Malaysia welcomed approximately 42 million international visitor arrivals in 2025 and was targeting 47 million arrivals in 2026. Acknowledging the growing interest among Pakistani travellers in Malaysia, he encouraged more Pakistanis to explore the country’s diverse attractions, cultural heritage and hospitality.
He also recalled his participation as chief guest at an event organised by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Kuala Lumpur, describing it as an example of the close connections between the business communities of both countries.
In the education sector, H.E. Amb. Dato’ Azhar highlighted the presence of approximately 5,000 Pakistani students pursuing their studies in Malaysia, placing Pakistan among the leading countries of origin for international students. He encouraged more Pakistani students to consider Malaysia as their preferred education destination, citing the cultural similarities, shared values and welcoming environment offered by the country. The High Commissioner further identified the halal industry as another promising area for bilateral cooperation. He highlighted Malaysia’s established halal ecosystem, expertise in food technology and international experience in halal product development, which could complement Pakistan’s strengths in agriculture and food production. He expressed confidence that closer collaboration in these sectors would generate tangible benefits for the economies and peoples of both countries.
Towards the conclusion of his remarks, H.E. Amb. Dato’ Azhar conveyed his appreciation to the officers and staff of the High Commission for their dedication and hard work in organising the gathering and the various diplomatic, economic and cultural activities undertaken throughout the year.
Reflecting on the importance of continued engagement and mutual understanding, the High Commissioner shared a quotation attributed to Albert Einstein: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.
The important thing is not to stop questioning.” He then offered his own interpretation of the quotation, emphasising that “the important thing is not to stop engaging and having dialogue with each other.” Through this reflection, he encouraged all present to maintain open communication, respect differing perspectives and continue working together towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.
He concluded by extending his best wishes for peace, progress and prosperity to Pakistan, Malaysia and all countries represented at the gathering. Following the remarks, guests enjoyed refreshments and continued their conversations in a relaxed and informal setting, providing an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and establish new contacts across the diplomatic, government and business communities.
