Mesmerising performance: Loke (fifth from right) and Ouyang (Loke’s left) with other VIPs at the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in Kuala Lumpur. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: It was a grand night at the reception to commemorate the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
Held at a hotel yesterday evening, the reception saw the attendance of hundreds of invited guests, with many coming in traditional attire as well.
At the centre of the reception hall were two massive giant panda sculptures of Fu Wa and Feng Yi which were loaned to Malaysia by China in 2014 for 10 years.
There were three smaller panda sculptures of Yi Yi, Sheng Yi and Nuan Nuan climbing a beautiful bamboo centrepiece.
These offspring of Fu Wa and Feng Yi, who were renamed Xing Xing and Liang Liang, have since returned to China.
Guests were treated to an eye-catching traditional dance performance by a dozen dancers adorned with flower-themed costumes.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was the guest of honour, and Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing toasted to the success of their respective governments and for continuing friendly relations.
Guests then stood as a multiracial choir first sang China’s national anthem followed by the Negaraku.
Ouyang said he hoped for the continued successful cooperation between both nations.
“Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and it will be an important milestone for both countries.
“Let us raise a toast to and wish for the prosperity of both Malaysia and China as well as the happiness and well-being of both our people. Let us wish China-Malaysia relations a bright future ahead,” he said.
A four-tier cake was then unveiled, adorned with edible gold Chinese-style decorations including some shaped like flowers.
The cake was also topped with a large Chinese flag attached to a flagpole.
Also at the reception were Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
