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ON HIS MAJESTY’S SERVICE

indeed a Garden City as there are many broad boulevards lined with trees
and parks dotting the city landscapes. It is the city where the old and the
modern coexist.

Malaysia and Chile established diplomatic relations about three decades ago.
Chile today has become a role model and the envy of many in the region.
Sadly, I was back home when Chile celebrated her Bicentennial Anniversary
in 2010.

One of the biggest moments of my career was the Royal Visit of His Majesty
Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Her Majesty Raja Permaisuri Agong to Santiago
from 19 to 22 April 2009. T e task then seemed insurmountable as I was
given less than a month’s notice.

My wife and I had the pleasure and honour of playing hosts to their Majesties
at a dinner held at Rumah Malaysia, the of cial Residence of the Ambassador.
I could have taken the easy way out and hosted it at a prominent hotel in
Santiago. Instead, I chose to have it at the Residence to give their Majesties
a homely welcome. My daughter Ayra will cherish forever the honour given
to present the Permaisuri a bouquet of f owers upon arrival at the Residence.

T e dinner was held in the garden. A huge two-storey canopy complete
with chandeliers was set up and the swimming pool was covered to make
a stage for the cultural performance. A giant LED screen was put up on
stage complete with a sound and lighting system. It was a Canopy in the
Garden and a Garden in the Canopy as some garden trees and shrubs were
left untouched inside the canopy.

We had approximately 400 guests comprising ASEAN Ambassadors,
Malaysians and Chileans. T e theme colour of the evening was yellow to
give it a royal f avour. Potted yellow chrysanthemums were placed around
the stage and yellow lilies were placed on the tables. T e setting was picture
perfect f t for the Royal Couple.

I have delivered many speeches before our Prime Ministers, at National Day
receptions, fora and seminars, schools, even in the presence of former Israeli
Prime Minister Netanyahu when he was Ambassador at the United Nations

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