PRESS RELEASE EMBASSY OF MALAYSIA MANILA
On 9 September 2025, the Embassy of Malaysia hosted a reception at Shangri La Makati to commemorate the 68th National Day of Malaysia. The event was graced by the Guest of Honour, Honorable Leo M. Herrera-Lim, Undersecretary for Migration Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, along with His Grace Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, distinguished members of the Philippine Senate, Congress, government officials, the diplomatic community, business leaders, and Friends of Malaysia.
In his address, H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Republic of the Philippines, reflected on Malaysia’s journey since independence, noting that this year’s celebration under the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni” (People Cared For) is both a tribute to the sacrifices of past generations and a call to safeguard unity, peace, and prosperity for the future.
Ambassador Malik highlighted Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair in 2025, where under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, Malaysia has spearheaded key initiatives:
- The Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, setting a long-term vision for a more resilient ASEAN.
- The ASEAN Economic Community Strategic Plan 2026–2030, guiding regional economic cooperation.
- Progress on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement – the world’s first binding regional digital economy pact – and the launch of the ASEAN Artificial Intelligence Safety Network.
- Expanded cooperation on sustainability and climate action, including renewable energy, the ASEAN Power Grid, and stronger partnerships with Japan and the EU.
- Deepened public health preparedness through the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies.
- The historic advancement of Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN.
These accomplishments are based on the guiding principle that progress should be inclusive and that no ASEAN citizen should be left behind. He further noted that the Philippines will assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, and assured that Malaysia will extend its utmost support to the Government of the Philippines in ensuring the continued success of ASEAN’s shared vision.
Underscoring the strong bilateral ties, Ambassador Malik noted that Malaysia and the Philippines share history, culture, and aspirations, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, Islamic banking, education, halal industry, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Over 800 Malaysian companies are currently operating in the Philippines, showcasing the ongoing growth in bilateral trade. He highlighted that the essence of their partnership lies in the warmth, trust, and mutual respect
107 Tordesillas Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City, 1227 Philippines
Tel.: 02 8662 8200 Fax: 02 8662 8201/02
The evening programme featured cultural performances, an angklung presentation by the Sisters of Mary Schools, a video montage on Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, and a showcase of Malaysian cuisine prepared by Chef Edwin and Chef Ammar. A symbolic CSR presentation of 1,000 box of Farm Fresh milk to the Philippine Department of Education underscored the Embassy’s commitment to community outreach programme. The festivities concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony symbolizing the enduring friendship between Malaysia and the Philippines, followed by cultural dances and a lucky draw.
The 68th National Day reception not only celebrated Malaysia’s independence but also highlighted the country’s leadership role in ASEAN and its unwavering friendship with the Philippines.
Embassy of Malaysia
Manila
9 September 2025