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By Mihar Dias April 2025
(a Concerned Observer of Carpark Ceremonies).
Who would’ve thought that Malaysia’s finest diplomatic moment with the world’s most powerful man would unfold… beside a Toyota Alphard and a concrete pillar?
Yes, guys, we have entered a new golden era of international relations — forged not in glittering halls with chandeliers and batik shirts, but in the hallowed grounds of the underground car park. https://newswav.com/A2504_2x6u5l?s=A_ONuEsXl&language=en
Because nothing says "sovereign hospitality" quite like the sweet scent of engine oil and freshly-poured cement.
In a short clip now circulating faster than a durian discount during Ramadan, Transport Minister was spotted handing over a Royal Selangor pewter plaque — complete with a majestic dragon — to President Xi himself. https://newswav.com/A2504_2x6u5l?s=A_ONuEsXl&language=en
And no, it wasn’t a prank. This wasn’t some junior officer misplacing the VIP suite for B4 parking. This was protocol. Or so we were told.
The location? Strategically chosen for President Xi’s safety, said the Minister. https://newswav.com/A2504_2x6u5l?s=A_ONuEsXl&language=en
Because apparently the leader of 1.4 billion people — who probably has more bodyguards than we have potholes — is safest next to a concrete ramp and a suspicious orange cone.
Not exactly Tiananmen Square material, but hey, even emperors need to beat the valet queue.
Critics online, ever ready with their magnifying glasses and Lazada tabs, claimed the pewter gift was Made in China.
This, despite the minister's clarification that it was 100% Malaysian-made by Royal Selangor. https://newswav.com/A2504_2x6u5l?s=A_ONuEsXl&language=en
To be fair, with China making everything from satellites to shoelaces, who can blame people for assuming?
And the price? A modest RM1,500, which netizens argued you could probably get for less during Shopee’s “8.8 President’s Day Sale.” But let’s be real — is there a promo code for national pride?
The minister, unfazed, told a DAP fundraising crowd that Xi Jinping was pleased.
In fact, the Chinese President reportedly admired not just the gift, but Malaysia’s hospitality — and presumably, our excellent basement ventilation system.
In the end, 31 MoUs were signed. Malaysia got long-term visa exemptions. China got a pewter dragon.
And the Minister? He got an unofficial new title: Minister of Memorabilia & Multi-Level Diplomacy.
Next time, maybe we’ll host a state banquet at a loading dock. Just remember: in geopolitics, it’s not about where you stand. It’s where you park.
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