KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 – The Ukraine-Malaysia Friendship Night 2024, held here recently, marked a milestone in fostering cultural exchange and strengthening diplomatic ties between Ukraine and Malaysia.
Organised by the Embassy of Ukraine in Malaysia in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia, the two-day event was held at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MATIC).
The unique celebration coincided with both Ukraine’s Independence Day and Malaysia Day, further enhancing the significance of the event.
According to the Ukraine embassy in a statement, the event not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of both nations but also reinforced the growing friendship and collaboration between Ukraine and Malaysia.
“Through a series of captivating performances, speeches, and artistic displays, the Ukraine-Malaysia Friendship Night 2024 succeeded in deepening mutual understanding and promoting cultural diplomacy between the two countries,” the statement said.
.A series of promotional videos highlighted Ukraine’s rich culture, resilience, and natural beauty, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
The event opened with a traditional Malaysian dance by ARTISTANA Istana Budaya, symbolising the hospitality of Malaysia.
Following the national anthems of Ukraine and Malaysia, distinguished guests addressed the audience, including Chairman of the Malaysia-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group William Leong Jee Keen, and Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of Ukraine in Malaysia Denys Mykhailiuk.
One of the evening’s highlights was a special Bandura performance by Larissa Kovalchuk, an internationally renowned artist whose masterful renditions of traditional Ukrainian songs, accompanied by the Malaysian band Virtuoso Masters, captivated the audience.
The Bandura, Ukraine’s national instrument, dates back to the 6th century and has evolved into a chromatic concert instrument with 65 strings.
Besides that, the Batik and Vyshyvanka Fashion Shows presented by students and designers from the City University Malaysia showcased Malaysia’s cultural artistry and the elegance of traditional attires. Both segments received enthusiastic applause, reflecting the harmonious blending of Malaysian and Ukrainian cultures.
The night was enriched by musical performances from the Orkestra Tradisional Malaysia, Istana Budaya, which featured unique traditional Malaysian instruments such as the ‘rebana’, ‘gambus’, ‘sitar’ and ‘sape’.
