Independence Day messages of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Minister of Foreign Relations Dinesh Gunawardena were read by High Commissioner Air Chief Marshal Kapila Veedhiya Bandara Jayampathy, Mohd Arafa Mohd Akeel and First Secretary Bhagya Abeykoon, respectively.
Delivering the welcome address, High Commissioner Air Chief Marshal Kapila Veedhiya Bandara Jayampathy, noted that the people of Sri Lanka celebrate the 72th Anniversary of Independence with a hope of peaceful, bright and prosperous future. He also emphasised that relations between Sri Lanka and Malaysia have seen unprecedented momentum in the recent years and requested Sri Lankan Expatriate community and Malaysian business community further engage with the Investment opportunities. The programme ended with the serving of refreshments including kiribath and traditional sweet meats.
The High Commission also hosted a Diplomatic reception with the participation of a large number of invitees, including representatives and officials from the Government of Malaysia, members of diplomatic corps, business community, academia, and friends of Sri Lanka in Malaysia at the Nusantara Ballroom, Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur. The event was graced by Deputy Minister Tuan Sim Tze Tzin as the Chief Guest where he proposed a toast for the good health and well-being of President Gotabaya Rajapakse, and the People of Sri Lanka.
Highlights of the Diplomatic Reception was the elegant and colorful dance performance of the Squadron Leader Kanchana Indika Jayarathna and Warrant Officer Anura Senavirathna of Sri Lankan Air Force which included Raban Dance, Ves dance, Mass Dance presenting the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka .The event was concluded with authentic Sri Lankan cuisine provided by the Aliya restaurant Malaysia combined with Sri Lankan beverages including dilmah tea. All the VIP guests retuned home with a token of appreciation which included handy Basilur Tea gift box together with the Independence Day special supplement.
The High Commission also took the momentum to present promotional video clip exclusively designed encapsulating Trade, Tourism and Investment opportunities in Sri Lanka to Malaysian Business community amongst the guests. All Staff of the High Commission associated with these events.
