BANGKOK, Nov 18 — The Malaysia Festival 2023, held in Hatyai, Songkhla, southern Thailand, commenced on Friday with the aim of showcasing Malaysia’s tourist destinations, products, and handicrafts.
The grand opening of the inaugural Malaysia Festival, hosted at the Central Festival Hatyai shopping complex, was graced by the presence of Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, and Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil.
In his opening speech, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin emphasized the significance of this event, highlighting its role in strengthening the collaboration between Thailand and Malaysia.
He said that the festival not only showcases locally crafted products by entrepreneurs but also enhances tourism and culture for both nations.
Co-organized by Vinspire Sdn. Bhd. and Wang Mart Co. Ltd, with support from the Consul General of Malaysia in Songkhla, Ministry of Agriculture, Tourism Malaysia, and Seremban City Council, the three-day festival presents a diverse array of Malaysian products and services.
The event features 15 exhibition booths, including representations from Tourism Malaysia, Perlis Visit Year 2024-2025, Seremban City Council, Wang Mart Co. Ltd, Fatihah Frozen Food Sdn Bhd, and V-Nion Food Industries Sdn Bhd.
Joey Tong, Managing Director, and Founder of Vinspire Sdn Bhd, expressed that the Malaysia Festival 2023 aims to strengthen the harmonious relationship between Thailand and Malaysia while fostering comprehensive economic development and societal resilience. He added that it serves as a vibrant bridge connecting trade and culture and nurturing the enduring relationship between the two nations.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, Consul General of Malaysia in Songkhla, described the festival as a gateway to experiencing a treasure trove of Malaysian products. He emphasized that it goes beyond promoting trade and plays a pivotal role in fostering relationships, particularly in the realms of tourism and culture.
Governor of Songkhla, Somnuk Promkeaw, lauded the Malaysia Festival 2023 as a bridge of unity, intertwining the paths of both countries and fostering robust connections in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
He highlighted Songkhla’s historical role as a conduit for trade, culture, and goodwill between Malaysia and Thailand, emphasizing the festival’s significance in celebrating their intertwined legacy and enduring ties.
“It’s a testament to our dedication to building enduring relationships between our countries. The Malaysia Festival serves as a beacon illuminating unity, fostering understanding, collaboration, and respect,” Governor Somnuk concluded.
