Some 50 guests gathered in a quiet yet deeply meaningful gathering at the office of the Ukrainian Honorary Consul in Green Hall, George Town, Penang, to commemorate the Independence Day of Ukraine.
Falling on Sunday, August 24, 2025, Ukraine’s Independence Day marks a solemn but powerful reminder of the country’s enduring fight for freedom and sovereignty. The event opened with guests standing in respectful silence for the national anthems of both Malaysia and Ukraine—an emotional moment that underscored the deep ties between the two nations.
Leading the evening was Ukraine’s Honorary Consul in Penang, Datuk Seri Chuah Kim Seah, along with his dedicated team.
In his welcoming address, Datuk Seri Chuah expressed his profound honour and joy in hosting the gathering:
“On August 24, 1991, Ukraine was declared independent and began its journey as a free and sovereign nation. Independence Day is more than a historical milestone—it is a celebration of the resilience, unity, and indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people. It is a tribute to our enduring fight for freedom, dignity, and the fundamental right of every nation to chart its own destiny.”
He acknowledged the distance between Penang and Ukraine, but reminded everyone that “our hearts remain closely bound to the people of Ukraine,” especially during this time of hardship. His message of gratitude to Malaysia and the global diplomatic community for their unwavering solidarity brought a deep sense of shared humanity to the evening.
“Let this day be a reminder that peace, prosperity, and hope can only be achieved when we stand together in unity. May it inspire us to continue building bridges of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect.”
As the evening progressed, guests were invited to raise their glasses in a toast—to friendship, resilience, and solidarity with the people of Ukraine. The atmosphere was reflective and moving as attendees watched a video highlighting the challenges and suffering faced by Ukrainians amid ongoing adversity.
Adding to the event’s significance was the presence of esteemed members of the diplomatic and local communities, including: Mr Artem Blyzniuk, Second Secretary for Consular Affairs, Embassy of Ukraine in Kuala Lumpur; H.E. Mr Machida Shinya, Consul-General of Japan in Penang; Dato’ Seri (Dr.) Abdul Rafique Karim, Honorary Consular General of Pakistan; Dato Seri Suppiah Manikam, Honorary Consul of Poland in Penang; Datuk Cha Hoo Peng, Honorary Consul of Fiji; Dato’ Hans Peter Brenner, Honorary Consul of Germany; Bapak Safaat Ghofur, Deputy Consul General of Indonesia in Penang; and prominent members of the Malaysian business and civic community including Dato Seri Khor Teng Tong, founder of Hunza Properties, Dato Jeffrey Chew, and Dato V. Sasedharan, CEO of Penang Port commission among others.
The evening closed not just as a diplomatic occasion, but as a heartfelt tribute to Ukraine’s unyielding pursuit of peace and independence, with hopes held high for a future free from conflict.