In a vibrant display of Malaysia’s multicultural spirit, the Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC) hosted a grand Deepavali celebration at NagaWorld 1 on Friday evening. The event, themed around unity and cultural diversity, was graced by Cambodian Minister of Tourism Huot Hak as the distinguished chief guest.
The celebration drew a distinguished crowd, including diplomats, senior government officials, chamber representatives, corporate leaders, and members of the Malaysian expatriate community in Cambodia.
Known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, Deepavali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Addressing the gathering, Minister Huot Hak emphasised that such events go beyond mere cultural festivities — they serve as bridges of friendship and understanding between nations.
“This celebration not only introduces rich cultural traditions and spiritual significance, but also inspires regional cultural understanding and friendship, particularly between Cambodia and Malaysia,” he said.
“Deepavali has become a bridge that deepens people-to-people connections, encourages tourism and cultural exchange, and enhances mutual respect between our two nations.”
Highlighting Cambodia’s tourism growth, the minister revealed that the Kingdom welcomed over four million international tourists in the first nine months of this year, including more than 74,000 Malaysians — a six percent increase from 2023. He invited more Malaysian visitors to explore Cambodia’s “profound historic heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.”
Malaysia’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Shaharuddin Onn, noted that the Deepavali celebration provided an opportunity to showcase Malaysia’s multicultural harmony and promote tourism through cultural and culinary diplomacy.
“As we approach Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Malaysians in Cambodia are in an excellent position to promote our country as a tourism destination to their Cambodian and international friends,” the ambassador said. “Likewise, we should all help promote Cambodia as a destination to our networks back home.”
MBCC President Tan Khee Meng highlighted that Malaysia’s diversity is its greatest strength.
“In a world divided by conflict and uncertainty, Deepavali’s message is clear — collective friendship is the light that dispels global darkness,” he remarked. “Multiculturalism is not only a social asset but also an economic driver, especially in tourism.”
Tan also encouraged the Malaysian business community to champion business tourism and leverage professional networks to attract investors to Cambodia.
“Businesses attract tourism, and tourism attracts more business,” he added.
The event’s highlight was the lighting of the ceremonial diya (oil lamp) by the guests of honour, symbolising prosperity and the victory of good over evil. The ceremony was followed by a joint dinner featuring Malaysian-Indian cuisine.
MBCC Board Member Logeswaran Subramaniam, Managing Director of Project Management Consultancy Plus Co. Ltd., shared his joy at celebrating the festival in Phnom Penh.
“My mother came all the way from Malaysia for this celebration — it’s a very special moment for our family,” he said.
Khmer Times served as the official media partner for the event. Vishnu Mohan, Management Trainee at Khmer Times, received a token of appreciation from Tan during the ceremony.
