KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign diplomats in Malaysia have extended their congratulatory message to the government and the people of Malaysia in conjunction with the country's 65th National Day celebration Wednesday.

Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Katsuhiko Takahashi, in a short video posted on the embassy's official page, wished "Selamat Hari Kebangsaan 2022 to all Malaysian friends."

Marking his first Merdeka celebration here, the diplomat chose Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre rooftop garden as the venue from which to convey the Merdeka (Independence) message.

"It's my first time experiencing the joyful celebrations of Merdeka. I am standing here with the iconic Merdeka 118 Tower next to me, which is going to be Southeast Asia's tallest and the world's second tallest building upon its completion.

"Let us all raise the flag of Jalur Gemilang to truly appreciate the spirit of Hari Kebangsaan. May Malaysia be flourished with more success," he added.

On the same note, the South Korean Ambassador to Malaysia Lee Chi Beom also congratulated the people of Malaysia.

"Our two countries have enjoyed a warm and long-standing relationship over the 60 years and will continue to work together to strengthen this friendly relationship.

"We wish all the Malaysian friends peace, prosperity and progress. Happy Merdeka Day!

The main celebration of National Day 2022, themed 'Keluarga Malaysia Teguh Bersama', is held at Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka) with an expected attendance of 50,000 people - the first grand gathering in two years after the country was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

-- BERNAMA