BEIJING: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, graciously took time to meet with the Malaysian diaspora in China.
Sultan Ibrahim, who is on his maiden state visit to the republic from Sept 19 to 22 at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, attended the reception held at a hotel here at 10am on Saturday (Sept 21).
Also in attendance were Tunku Temenggong of Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Foreign Affairs secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin, and Malaysia's Ambassador to China Datuk Norman Muhamad.
Over 300 Malaysians, including businesspeople, university students, and members of the Malaysian embassy in China were in attendance at the nearly hour-long reception, which featured traditional Chinese cultural performances.
Before departing, His Majesty warmly interacted with and greeted the Malaysians, who were excited to meet the nation’s foremost leader.
His Majesty also took the time to inquire about their well-being.
The Malaysians were filled with joy and excitement when given the special opportunity to meet His Majesty.
China Media Group (CMG) journalist Isa Zubir, 35, could not hide his enthusiasm when met by Bernama during the banquet.
"I am extremely excited that Sultan Ibrahim has taken the time to meet Malaysians in this country. This is a very special opportunity.
"In the past 10 years, this is the first time we have had the chance to meet the King. We are very grateful and proud,” said the native of Sungai Besar, Selangor.
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering student at Beijing Jiaotong University, Assayidatul Afiqah Nor Hairi, 23, described the meeting with Sultan Ibrahim as one of the most valuable moments of her life.
"I feel very lucky not only to see His Majesty but also to interact with him directly. This is an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. I am very proud to be Malaysian,” she said.
Shankar Achuthan Kutty, 53, a senior company officer, also expressed his pride at being given the opportunity to attend the banquet.
"This is an extraordinary honour. I hope His Majesty’s visit will further strengthen the relationship between Malaysia and China,” he said.
Meanwhile, Amanda Ng Fui Fui, 34, a native of Kuala Krai, Kelantan, representing the Beijing Delegates Association, regarded the event as a golden opportunity to meet the head of state.
"I am very grateful to be here today. It is a very meaningful experience in my life,” she said.
Earlier, Sultan Ibrahim consented to officially renaming the Malay Studies Chair at Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) in His Majesty’s honour, now titled the Sultan Ibrahim Chair of Malay Studies.
The King’s state visit reflects the strong bilateral relations between Malaysia and China, which have been rapidly developing since being elevated to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013.
It coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and marks the first official visit by a Malaysian King to China in 10 years, representing a significant moment for both nations as they celebrate this milestone.
His Majesty is scheduled to return to Malaysia on Sunday (Sept 22).- Bernama
