AMBASSADOR PONCE CALLS ON DATUK KAMARUL BAHARIN BIN A. KASIM, DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS MALAYSIA (DMM)

Kuala Lumpur, 27 March 2025 - Ambassador Maria Angela Ponce paid a courtesy visit to Datuk Kamarul Baharin Bin A. Kasim, Director General of the Department of Museums Malaysia (DMM) on 06 March 2025, to discuss potential avenues for cultural collaboration, particularly in arts and cultural exchanges between the Philippines and Malaysia.

During the meeting, Ambassador Ponce expressed her enthusiasm for pursuing collaborative opportunities with the DMM. In response, Datuk Baharin shared insights about various ongoing initiatives, emphasizing the significant potential for partnerships to enhance cultural exchanges between the two countries. Ambassador Ponce expressed particular interest in the upcoming exhibitions organized by the DMM and other initiatives aligned with ASEAN activities. She reaffirmed the Embassy's commitment to supporting and facilitating the Philippines’ participation in the forthcoming events and exhibitions curated by the DMM, especially the International Museum Day, which will provide a valuable opportunity to showcase the cultural heritage of both nations.

Datuk Baharin highlighted the importance of cultural collaboration, noting that working together on cultural projects can build meaningful connections and enhance understanding between Malaysia and the Philippines.

Ambassador Ponce was joined by Cultural Officer Jesher Micha Carolino, and Attaché Aina Abrencillo. Director General Baharin was joined by Deputy Director General of Policy Division Mohamad Shawali bin Haji Badi, Director Zamrul Amri bin Zakaria, Director of National Textile Museum Tengku Intan Rahimah Binti Tengku Mat Saman, Head of Policy and Strategic Planning Unit Roslewati binti Abdullah, Director of the Division of Corporate Communication Miti Fateema Sherzeella binti Mohd Yusoff and Director General Special Officer Nor Jawahir binti Raduian.

Following their discussions, the Embassy was given a guided tour of the National Textile Museum by Museum Curator Salmiahwati bt. Djafar. The museum’s collection features a variety of textiles, clothing, and accessories from different ethnic groups in Malaysia, along with exhibitions on textile production processes and the rich history of the textile industry in the region.

The visit underscored mutual appreciation and understanding through the arts. The Embassy is eager to work closely with the Department of Museums Malaysia (DMM) to strengthen this partnership and explore future undertakings that will showcase the rich and diverse cultures of both nations. END

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