ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, the High Commission of Malaysia in Islamabad marked Malaysia’s 66th Independence Day with the first-ever Merdeka Islamabad Fun Ride 2023, a delightful cycling event that brought together Malaysians and their Pakistani friends in a spirit of celebration and camaraderie.
The event, organized under the auspices of the High Commission’s Sports and Recreation Club (Kelab STMI), was a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ladies Association, Malaysia in Islamabad (PERWAKILAN Islamabad). It formed part of a month-long series of celebrations to commemorate Malaysia’s 66th Independence Day, which falls on 31st August.
A total of 40 participants enthusiastically joined the fun ride, including His Excellency Ambassador Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia, officials and staff of the High Commission, and their family members. Notably, officials from the Defense Office of the Indonesian Embassy also joined the event, fostering diplomatic goodwill and friendship.
Merdeka Islamabad Fun Ride
The event kicked off at 0800hrs at the Chancery Building of the Malaysian High Commission, with the flag-off ceremony led by Madam Amelia Amani Lee, President of PERWAKILAN Islamabad. Participants embarked on a scenic cycling journey from the High Commission to the iconic Faisal Mosque, covering a total distance of 14 kilometers.
In his closing remarks at the event’s conclusion, Ambassador Azhar Mazlan expressed his appreciation for the dedicated efforts of Kelab STMI members in organizing a successful and meaningful event. He underscored the significance of such gatherings in nurturing a sense of belonging and community engagement among the Malaysian community in Pakistan.
Ambassador Azhar Mazlan also highlighted that the Merdeka Fun Ride 2023 was just one of several special events lined up as part of the Malaysia MADANI Independence Month Celebrations in Pakistan.
Beyond instilling a sense of patriotism, particularly among the younger generation of Malaysians in Pakistan, the event served to fortify the bonds of unity and friendship among Malaysian and Pakistani staff members at the High Commission. The first-ever fun ride was deemed a resounding success, evident from the participants’ spontaneous expressions of joy and pride throughout the event.
A heartfelt thanks was extended to the Superintendent Police Team for their invaluable support in ensuring the safety and smooth traffic coordination during the event, further exemplifying the close ties between Malaysia and Pakistan.
