MALBATT 850-12 CELEBRATES AIDILFITRI IN 'TRULY MALAYSIA’ STYLE IN LEBANON

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) 850-12 personnel celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Lebanon with a spirit of 'Truly Malaysia’ that embodied a sense of harmony and kinship.

The Hari Raya gathering, held at Dewan Jun Sang, Camp Marakah in Lebanon, was further enlivened by the presence of Malaysian Ambassador to Lebanon Azri Mat Yacob and battalion commanders from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Western Sector.

"The presence of these important guests shows the appreciation towards the spirit of international collaboration in ensuring peace and stability in Lebanon,” MALBATT said in a statement.

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The celebration began with the firing of a traditional bamboo cannon, followed by a spread of Malaysian delicacies and traditional dishes, giving UNIFIL personnel from various countries the opportunity to enjoy Malaysian flavours.

In addition, the event also featured cultural performances by the MALBATT 850-12's arts troupe, showcasing Malaysian culture.

Meanwhile, MALBATT 850-12 commander Colonel Johan Effendi Mohd Shalleh, in his speech, said the presence of battalions under the UNIFIL Western Sector reflected the strong sense of kinship and unity among the teams.

He also expressed his appreciation to all those present and thanked the Malaysian Ambassador to Lebanon for his support in prioritising the welfare of MALBATT personnel in Lebanon to ensure the teams can carry out their UNIFIL mission smoothly.

Azri, in his speech, said the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration this time reflected the concept of "Truly Malaysia” by depicting the spirit of unity in cultural diversity as well as a deep sense of mutual appreciation among the multicultural community of peacekeepers.

"Malaysia's involvement in the UNIFIL mission is proof of its extremely strong bilateral ties (with Lebanon) and Malaysia is always ready to help strengthen this relationship, particularly in the post-conflict phase in Lebanon.

"Malaysia will strive to ensure the country's peace is guaranteed and will continue to support UNIFIL missions for Lebanon's stability,” he said.

The MALBATT 850-12 was deployed in phases, involving 854 personnel, including a team from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces as well as one civilian officer, from Nov 6 last year.

-- BERNAMA