The Malaysian Business Chamber in Cambodia (MBCC) hosted a magnificent Deepavali celebration on October 24, 2025, uniting diplomats, government officials, and business leaders in a vibrant tribute to cultural harmony and the enduring Malaysia-Cambodia friendship.
The gala dinner, themed around the “A Celebration of Friendship and Festival of Lights” was graced by the presence of Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, and Shaharuddin Onn, Ambassador of Malaysia to Cambodia.
The event brought together a distinguished gathering of ASEAN diplomats, chamber presidents, and members of the Malaysian community and local business fraternity.
In his opening address, MBCC President Oknha Tan Khee Meng extended a warm welcome, framing Deepavali as a universal symbol of hope and unity.
“Deepavali is far more than a festival; it is a timeless story told through light. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness, and hope over despair,” he said.
Oknha Tan drew powerful parallels between the multicultural fabric of Malaysia and the inclusive spirit of Cambodia.
He noted that this shared heritage of multiculturalism is the strongest foundation for the deep and abiding friendship between the two nations.
“Look around this room. We are not just one community celebrating alone… This gathering is itself a powerful symbol. It signifies that our collective friendship is a shining light that, together, can dispel any global darkness,” he added.
Looking forward, Oknha Tan proposed a strategic “Business Tourism” initiative, calling on the business community to actively invite overseas partners to Cambodia.
“When a business visitor discovers both opportunity and beauty, they become a repeat visitor… This is how we can build shared and sustainable prosperity,” he said, outlining a visionary path where business and tourism synergize for mutual growth.
Hak, Minister of Tourism, in his speech, lauded the profound and historic relationship between Cambodia and Malaysia.
He said that the diplomatic bond, established on the day of Malaysia’s independence in 1957, is one of the longest and most enduring in ASEAN.
The Minister commended the MBCC for its role in fostering this relationship and acknowledged the chamber’s positive contributions to Cambodia’s socio-economic development, particularly in promoting its diverse tourism offerings.
Ambassador Shaharuddin also addressed the attendees.
He praised the MBCC for its exemplary organization of cultural events that proudly showcase Malaysian heritage.
The Ambassador specifically highlighted the unity of the Malaysian community in Cambodia, noting that their harmonious integration and active participation in events like the Deepavali dinner serve as a brilliant display of the strong, people-to-people ties that underpin the excellent bilateral relationship between Cambodia and Malaysia.
The evening was a resounding success, featuring a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, a feast of authentic Malaysian-Indian cuisine, and cultural performances, embodying the spirit of unity and shared prosperity.