In celebration of the 750^th anniversary of Rumi’s ultimate union and the 60^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Türkiye and Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, played host to an event featuring a concert of Turkish Sufi music and a sama performance.

Staged at the Istana Budaya, one of Kuala Lumpur’s premier venues, the event was orchestrated by the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye and the Yunus Emre Institute in Kuala Lumpur. The program showcased a performance by the Konya Metropolitan Municipality Sama Team, presenting a concert that highlighted distinguished works of Turkish Sufi music and a sama performance. Additionally, the event included an introduction to the art of marbling, a cornerstone of traditional Turkish arts.

Emir Salim Yüksel, Turkish Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur, along with Ömer Altun, Coordinator of the Yunus Emre Institute in Kuala Lumpur, were among the guests at the program. The event, attended by members of the royal family and senior bureaucrats, encompassed a series of activities.

In his address, Emir Salim Yüksel, Turkish Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur, emphasized the significant milestone of the 60^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Malaysia. He underscored that this anniversary stands as a robust affirmation of the shared commitment to enhance the collaborative network between the two countries across various domains.

Noting the vast opportunities for collaboration between the countries, including potential exchanges in areas such as trade, education, and culture, Ambassador Emir Salim Yüksel remarked, “As we contemplate the past sixty years and beyond, we find ourselves traversing an extraordinary journey defined by shared values, mutual respect, and unyielding friendship.”

Highlighting the historical and fraternal roots dating back to the Ottoman Period, Ambassador Yüksel emphasized that this enduring relationship serves as evidence of the lasting bonds between the two peoples, saying, “I hope that the forthcoming years of brotherhood and friendship to be marked by even stronger ties, enhanced cooperation, and shared accomplishments.”

Attracting significant interest from the attendees, the event featured the presentation of marbling artist Garip Ay, who showcased the İstanbul silhouette, along with bird and tulip themes he has designed.

The program concluded with the unveiling of the “Turkish Calligraphy Exhibition,” showcasing the works of Seyit Ahmet Depeler, one of Türkiye’s preeminent calligraphers. Subsequently, attendees participated in calligraphy exercises held at the Yunus Emre Institute in Kuala Lumpur.