KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysia played a central role in commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York (SoFC), the world’s oldest and largest consular organisation.
Malaysia’s Consul General in New York, Amir Farid Abu Hasan, currently serves as SoFC President for the 2024/2025 term.
A gala reception was held at the historic Surrogate’s Courthouse in Lower Manhattan on Monday (May 5) to mark the occasion, carrying the theme “A Legacy of Diplomacy, A Future of Possibilities.”
More than 200 guests attended the centennial gala including members of the diplomatic corps, New York officials, and representatives of international organisations, according to a statement by the Consulate General of Malaysia in New York.
In his remarks, Amir Farid highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and dialogue between cultures.
“One hundred years ago, the society began as a humble gathering of foreign diplomats. Today, as Malaysia steers this historic organisation into its next century, we are reminded that diplomacy remains a vital bridge across cultures, ideas, and nations,” he said.
The highlight of the evening was an official proclamation by the Mayor of New York City, Eric L Adams, recognising the society’s 100th anniversary.
Speaking on behalf of the Mayor, First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro praised the role of diplomacy in today’s global context and acknowledged Malaysia’s contribution to the SoFC’s continued relevance.
“This is a moment to celebrate not only 100 years of history but also the leadership of nations like Malaysia that continue to carry this legacy forward,” he said.
Among the other guests were New York City Commissioner for International Affairs Edward Mermelstein, and Cliff Seagroves, Acting Director of the US Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions.
Established in 1925, the SoFC is the world’s largest consular platform, bringing together consulates, consuls general, and honorary consulates based in New York City.
It became a registered non-profit entity in 2015 and serves as a hub for diplomacy, cultural exchange, and advocacy on behalf of the consular corps.
-- BERNAMA
