FAREWELL MESSAGE FROM H.E. MS. SUZILAH BINTI MOHD SIDEK, AMBASSADOR OF MALAYSIA
H.E. Suzilah Binti Mohd Sidek, Ambassador of Malaysia
My two-year tenure in Prague has come to a close. Although it was a relatively short period, it has been deeply meaningful to me. As a first-time Ambassador, I feel privileged to have served in Prague, where I had the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life and foster friendships.
Czechia has held an indirect yet significant place in my life for many years. From wearing Bata shoes as part of my school uniform – a common experience for many Malaysians – to reading Milan Kundera’s works like “The Unbearable Lightness of Being” over three decades ago, and even having Dvořák’s music as my phone ringtone before my posting here, my connection to this country runs deeper than my time spent here.
I will fondly remember my walks through the beautiful parks and charming lanes of Prague, as well as the many wonderful people I had the pleasure of meeting, both professionally and personally. The allure of the Czech Republic’s old towns is truly unique, and I hope to return in the future to explore the regions I have not yet had the chance to visit.
During my time here, I was pleased to introduce “Bunga Raya Diplomacy,” centered around Malaysia’s national flower, the red hibiscus. I was pleased to see them potted and available as gifts. While I may have occasionally departed from tradition by presenting these flowering plants to gentlemen, I am delighted to hear that many of them have flourished in their new homes, serving as a reminder of the blooming friendship with Malaysia. I had hoped to share more of these blooms; however, their availability was limited due to the season, and the red variety was not always easy to find. Regardless, I sincerely hope that the relationship between our two countries will continue to strengthen and deepen in the years ahead.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to my dedicated colleagues at the Embassy, the Malaysian diaspora in Czechia, our valued friends of Malaysia, and all the esteemed diplomats and Ambassadors I have had the pleasure of meeting. I hope to see you all again, hopefully in Malaysia!
Jumpa lagi or na shledanou!
Suzilah Binti Mohd Sidek
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Czech Republic (March 2023 – May 2025)