Nation's Proud

Before RY was first posted at the new post, he was the AS for South Asia. During this time, diplomats from these countries which he was tasked to look after usually invited us to their National Day Celebrations at their embassies or the five star venues in my beloved country. The events were formal celebrations where the hosts and their guests were required to dress formally. The norm is to wear their national costumes, although some prefer the formal office wear. On this special day, courteously and very proudly the Head of Missions and his senior staff would wait at the entrance to welcome all their guests, including RY and me. 

I truly loved going to those events  and to date still is, because to me being specifically invited for that momentous occasion was really an honour and show of respect to the invitees. Those days, I used to observe and admire at them shaking hands with their guests especially with the Guest of Honour which certainly steer pride in my heart. The highlight of the Nation's Proud was the awesome singing of the two national anthems which certainly overwhelm the grand halls, followed by cake cutting ceremonies. These gestures undoubtedly connote strong bilateral relationship between the two nations.

In fact, I learn a lot from the events which I attended, in particular about the art of socializing, interacting, mingling and etiquette with other guests mainly diplomats and their spouses. We not only making new friends with them, but acquire more knowledge about their countries, cultures and traditions. Indeed, that nostalgic experience was my first taste about Nation's Proud! 

When our turn came to do the same at the new post, we were very eager to demonstrate our Nation's Proud to our honourable host, wonderful colleagues, the local dignitaries and other invitees. Not only all of us dressed smartly and beautifully in our official national costumes on that special day but we - the Malaysians in Kuwait also work hand in hand to provide special delicacies and cuisines to our guests. We want our honourable host and distinguished guests to experience Malaysian hospitality on that special day which was very important to us. 

All in all, national day celebrations are important to all citizens of every nation. It requires special attention to all diplomats and their spouses when they prepare the momentous event annually. It not only brings prestige, but reflects image and respect. We have to always uphold the good name of our country every where we are, and in particular when we are representing our nation at the missions we are posted to. And, I truly believe that one of the ways to show our love and respect to our beloved country is to organise the National Day event honourably, with great respect, full heartedly and in a very special way.