Presentation Of Malaysia's Gift To The United Nations 
New York, 25 September 2003 

I am indeed very pleased to be here in New York to  attend the 58th Session of the United Nations General  Assembly.  This is the forty-sixth time  that  a  Malaysian delegation has attended the General Assembly  since Malaysia became a member of the United Nations on  17 September 1957. After 46 years as a member of this Organization, Malaysia is now pleased to present a gift  to the United Nations. Many other countries have  already done so. Today, I am truly very happy to be  able to present this gift from the Government and  people of Malaysia to the United Nations.
  
2.  This gift from Malaysia is a betel quid set, or  "tepak sireh" in the Malay language. In Malaysia, in  the olden days the "tepak sireh" had a significant part  in conversations, negotiations and important ceremonies  in the royal courts, village gatherings and in the  homes of the ordinary people. The betel leaf was  offered to guests, in many instances as a means to  start conversations going. The "tepak sireh" remains  today as a centerpiece during traditional ceremonies.
  
3.  The "tepak sireh" is thus an important symbol of  diplomacy, dialogue, friendship and cooperation.  This  is what the United Nations symbolizes and should stand  for during these trying times. This "tepak sireh" is a  variation of the traditional "tepak sireh", conceived  and designed by Malaysians to embody the spirit of  harmony and unity that exists within the diverse ethnic  and cultural milieu in Malaysia. On the international  plane it embodies the diversity among the many nations  that have placed their hopes and trust in the United  Nations.  This "tepak sireh" is supported by four  traditional Malay weapons. The fact that these weapons  are securely sheathed in their scabbard, testifies to  the peaceful intentions of the Malaysian people and  their hope for peace to prevail at all times.
  
4.  This gift signifies Malaysia's strong commitment  to the United Nations. It is also for everyone to  share and perhaps admire. I hope that all visitors to  the  United  Nations  will recognise  "Malaysia's"  commitment to peace and harmony through this symbol.
  
5.  Please accept this gift from the Government and  people of Malaysia.