Kuala Lumpur, 23 May 2024 – The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines, in partnership with the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, launched the celebration of the 60th anniversary of Philippines-Malaysia diplomatic relations in an event entitled, “Islam: Weaving Stories and Art in the Philippines,” held at the IAMM Auditorium on 16 May 2024.

 

In her remarks, Ambassador Ponce emphasized that relations between the Philippines and Malaysia have matured over the past six decades, marked with a connection rooted in the nations’ intertwined history, culture, and commitment to peace and mutual prosperity. As both countries mark a significant milestone in their bilateral ties, the Philippines looks forward to further strengthening its relations with Malaysia in the years ahead.

 

Ambassador Ponce also underscored that it was timely that the event coincided with the National Heritage Month in the Philippines, as it honored the country's diverse culture and heritage. She encouraged attendees to visit the Islamic Arts Museum, where artifacts from Mindanao are on display, such as an an Al-Qur’an (1882 AD), a ceremonial betelnut box (mid-19th century AD), a moro suit of armor, a sword, and a moro helmet (19th century AD).

 

Honorable Hamid Aminoddin D. Barra, Minister for Human Settlements and Development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and Mr. Al-Nezzar B. Ali, Executive Secretary of the National Committee on Visual Arts (NCVA) under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), spoke on the history of Islam in the Philippines, and the evolution of woven textile art in Mindanao, respectively, highlighting similarities and connection between Philippine and Malaysian historical and cultural traditions.

 

To conclude the program, Former Bayanihan dance member Ms. Kaye Gabito, Filipino Artist Ms. Anna Karina Jardin, and select members of the Philippine Embassy performed the Kappa Malong Malong dance, demonstrating the many ways of using the inaul malong.

 

The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, IAMM officials, students, entrepreneurs, and members of the Filipino Community and ASEAN Ladies Circle Philippines.

 

Ambassador Ponce expressed her appreciation to IAMM for their invaluable support, highlighting their significant role in ensuring the success of the event. END.

 

 

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