M’sia to showcase unity message

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will showcase the message of unity, diversity and prosperity at the upcoming World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

The Deputy Prime Minister said 2025 would be a significant and exciting year for Malaysia as not only will it participate in the World Expo but at the same time, it will assume the role of Asean chairmanship.

“I believe our message for greater unity and prosperity as an Asean family can also be amplified through Malaysia’s participation at World Expo 2025.

“There are indeed core similarities between these two platforms as both call for collaboration, innovation and a shared vision for a better future,” he said while delivering his speech at the launching ceremony of Malaysia’s participation in the World Expo 2025 at Menara Miti yesterday.

The World Expo 2025 is held every five years and the upcoming World Expo Osaka will feature showcases by more than 160 participating countries for six months from April 13 to Oct 13, 2025.

During this period, more than 28 million visitors are expected to visit the World Expo 2025 in Osaka.

Fadillah also noted that the World Expo 2025 was not merely an exposition, but a global platform for countries to showcase their respective ideas, innovations and aspirations for a more dynamic and better future.

“Malaysia in alignment with the World Expo 2025 is adding our own unique thread to this showcase tapestry, a thread woven from the rich fabric of our diverse culture and heritage.

“Malaysia’s narrative is a story of a nation where people of different ethnicities, religions and backgrounds live together in harmony.

Global exposure: Fadillah (fourth from right) and Tengku Zafrul holding an artist impression of the Malaysia Pavilion at the World Expo 2025 during the launching ceremony at Menara Miti. With them are (from left) Miti secretary-general Datuk Hairil Yahri Yaacob, Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Takahashi Katsuhiko, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong and Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin.

“It is a story of unity in diversity, a testament to our ability to find strength in our differences.

“It is a story we’re proud to share with the world under the theme ‘Weaving a Future in Harmony’,” he said.

Citing the traditional Malaysian songket as an example, Fadillah said the songket was a masterpiece of interwoven silk and gold threads and was an excellent representation of the country’s theme.

“Each thread, unique in colour and texture, contributes to the overall beauty and elegance of the fabric.

“Like the intricate threads of a songket, our diverse communities intertwine to create a vibrant and harmonious society,” he said.

“This is the essence of Malaysia, a nation where unity in diversity is not just an ideal but a lived reality where every individual, every community, brings their unique perspectives and talents to enrich our society and community.”

The Malaysia Pavilion at the World Expo 2025, inspired by the traditional Malaysian weaving, would also serve as a vibrant representation of Malaysia’s theme in integrating our rich tapestry of cultural heritage, weaving together traditions and innovation, he said.

“This living testament to our nation’s values will showcase Malaysia’s unwavering commitment in forging a sustainable, inclusive and technologically advanced future, while celebrating the diverse heritage that makes us truly unique,” he said.

Inspired by songket: Visitors looking at a model of the Malaysia Pavilion at Menara Miti.

Meanwhile, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz expressed confidence of generating around RM13bil in export and investment through its participation in the World Expo 2025.

He explained that an estimated 28 million visitors are expected to attend the World Expo 2025.

“Leveraging on this sizeable audience, I am optimistic that we can generate around RM13bil worth of potential export and investment from Malaysia’s participation at the World Expo 2025,” he said.

“Miti feels proud and privileged to have been tasked to spearhead Malaysia’s participation at the World Expo 2025.

“This provides a unique opportunity for Malaysia to showcase our unwavering commitment to sustainable development, industrial reforms and inclusive economic growth, while fostering a prosperous society for all,” Tengku Zafrul said.

Malaysia’s pavilion at the World Exco 2025, he said, would showcase the country’s advancements and aspirations in sustainable agriculture, energy transition, smart living, advanced manufacturing, environmental management and green tourism.

“We want to show how Malaysia addresses global challenges innovatively to contribute to our planet’s wellbeing and a more sustainable, harmonious and equitable future for all people,” he said.